Exercising after a concussion
It used to be that after a concussion, athletes were encouraged to rest until they no longer had any symptoms, but this is no longer the case. Research continues to highlight that returning to safe physical activity in the first few days after a concussion can reduce a person’s chances of experiencing prolonged concussion symptoms.
Girls only sport spaces
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.
Gender, settler colonialism, and sport in Indigenous communities
Have you ever considered the dynamics between gender, settler colonialism, and sport within Indigenous communities? For instance, lacrosse, once a traditional Indigenous practice, was adopted by white settlers, altering its cultural significance. Gendered expectations within settler colonial institutions, like residential schools, have also enforced ideals that impact Indigenous women’s participation in sports like lacrosse. To…
The impact of mental toughness on sport performance
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 training and the athlete’s brain
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.
Predicting muscle fiber composition
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 and sport performance
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.
Kinesio Taping for chronic ankle instability
Ankle injuries are common among athletes, with recurrent sprains potentially leading to chronic ankle instability (CAI). Kinesio Taping, a type of therapeutic taping, has shown to provide moderate stabilization for athletes with CAI.
Local sports clubs post COVID-19
As local sports clubs try to bounce back in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, they face various challenges. Explore how these clubs are struggling to return to organized sports and emphasize the importance of using proven strategies to help them adapt and survive.
Health risks of climate change to athletes
Climate change poses complex risks to the environment, society, and health, but its impact on sports has been underexplored. Take a look at this new model that outlines the health risks climate change poses to athletes, including direct threats from extreme weather and indirect effects like increased air pollution and infection risks.