High performance mental health
A recent study investigating the mental health of athletes at the FINA World Championships in 2019 revealed that nearly 25% of the participants met the criteria for depression, and 45% expressed a desire for or a need for psychotherapeutic support. These findings underscore the importance of mental health support and resources for high performance athletes.
Athlete wellbeing post-retirement
In a study that delved into the perspectives of retired Olympians regarding the factors that influence athlete well-being post-retirement, participants highlighted the critical role of coaches, support staff, and others in the training environment. This finding underscores the importance of fostering positive relationships to enhance psychological safety and well-being after retiring from sport.
How much sleep do high performance athletes need?
Elite or high-performance athletes often demand an immense focus on health factors outside of sport, such as nutrition and recovery. A recent study conducted on male and female high-performance athletes found that approximately 8.3 hours of sleep were necessary to feel rested. Despite this, an overwhelming majority, 71%, fail to meet this requirement.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in elite athletes
Mental health and mental health disorders affect people from all walks of life. Elite athletes face unique challenges in dealing with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), with an estimated 1 in 8 experiencing this condition. This recent study explores the complexities of diagnosing and treating PTSD in athletes, highlighting best practice models for mental health…
Exploring pregnant and postpartum elite athletes
In the realm of sport there is a notable gap in research regarding the complex challenges that elite female athletes face when navigating sport environments for pregnant or postpartum athletes. That’s where this recent study comes in to uncover insights from coaches and healthcare professionals engaged with elite athletes during pregnancy and postpartum periods, aiming…
Rugby and fueling for success
In a study observing professional male rugby players, it was found that although players appear to meet their fuelling requirements in their pre-game and post-game meals, they do not meet the suggested daily carbohydrate fuelling needs. With athletes demonstrating relatively low carbohydrate intake compared to sports nutrition recommendations, it is important to ensure that a…
Transforming women’s sports through technology
In women’s elite sports, technology is transforming the game. Deloitte predicts that wearables, data analytics, and immersive fan experiences will optimize athlete performance and recovery. Embracing these technologies not only enhances fan engagement and opens new revenue streams but also fuels the growth and sustainability of women’s elite sports. It’s a win-win for players, fans,…
Climate and sport
The relationship between sport and the environment is important to keep in mind as climate change increasingly affects all areas of life. A recent review highlights the impacts of climate change on organized competitive sport entities.
The role of social support for female Olympic athletes
Social support has been widely recognized as a crucial aspect of an athlete’s career. Researchers from the University of Toronto conducted a study focusing on the unique challenges faced by female Olympic athletes and the role of social support. In their research, the authors provide valuable insights into how coaches, teammates, family, friends, and sports…
Meaning, Trust, and Belonging: Exploring the Factors that Foster Elite Refugee Athletes’ Growth
Introduction and Context Within the last decade there has been increased attention in supporting elite refugee athletes through sport. This attention includes international teams in the Olympics and national teams within their new countries. Many of these athletes have competed internationally for their home countries and seek to do the same within Canada, a global…