Knowledge Nuggets

In recent years, there has been an increase in the use of performance enhancing substances and medications to boost performance. Whether its athletes seeking an edge or individuals managing chronic conditions, the cardiovascular risks associated with these substances are significant.

In a recent study, researchers explored ways to enhance the performance of swimmers and water polo players. Using video technology, athletes observed themselves (self-modelling) or adjusted their training based on personalized input (self-controlled feedback) during training sessions. Both methods helped athletes swim faster and perform better, but combining these approaches was especially effective.

In aesthetic sports, athletes often perceive pressure to be thin to maximise performance. A recent study of elite-level gymnasts in Sweden showed a relationship between body dissatisfaction and symptoms of disordered eating over time, suggesting that monitoring of behaviours driven by body dissatisfaction, such as exercising for weight control, is important to identity athletes at...

In today’s digital era, it’s easy to overlook the importance of physical activity in our daily lives. New data from the WHO show that nearly one third (31%) of adults worldwide did not meet the recommended levels of physical activity in 2022, increasing the risk of certain diseases and health conditions. However, nearly half of...

In Canada, national sport organizations must have a clear Official Languages Policy to ensure they meet bilingual requirements for communications, programs, services and competitions. This policy needs to align with contribution agreements and be reviewed regularly to stay effective. Customizing these guidelines helps organizations meet Canada’s bilingual needs.

Girls who are part of marginalized groups often miss out on sports, posing a big challenge for inclusion. A recent study found that much of the hesitancy to join sports comes from patriarchal norms and shyness. Promoting girls only sports with female coaches may lead to better rates of sport participation.

There is a significant gap in race and ethnicity reporting in concussion research. A recent review revealed that out of 854 articles, only 15.5% reported race, 7.6% reported ethnicity, and 84.4% did not report either. To better understand the impact of concussions across diverse populations, researchers should include diverse participants in their studies and accurately...

Student-athletes are faced with many pressures both on the field and in the classroom, which can lead to mental health challenges such as anxiety. Research shows that teaching student-athletes and their coaches strategies to promote social support, such as active listening strategies, may support improved mental health outcomes in student-athletes.

According to a recent study, female and male athletes experience distinct mental health challenges. Female athletes more frequently report anxiety, depression and disordered eating, while male athletes are more likely to struggle with alcohol, drugs and gambling. Tailored strategies are essential to effectively support female and male athletes.

A Canadian study examining the impact of access to multidisciplinary care following a concussion in Olympic athletes found that return to sport was longer in athletes who had a delayed access to care. This research emphasizes the importance of early engagement with healthcare professionals to ensure a quicker and safer return to sport.