The physical and mental health benefits of youth athletics
Throughout youth a key part of childhood for many people has been sports. Sports are a key part of the schooling experience and create an opportunity for play and have many positive mental and physical benefits. A recent study shows that school athletes often reported higher academic achievement, decreased levels of anxiety and depression, and…
The impact of maltreatment in sport on social wellbeing of athletes
Maltreatment in the sport industry is an ongoing issue that has many negative social implications. According to research, athletes that have experienced maltreatment within their sport have long-term attachment issues, a higher risk of experiencing violence and victimization with other relationships and have a harder time developing positive social relationships. It’s important to recognize the…
Gender inequality in coaching soccer
Recently there has been significant growth in participation rates from women playing football. Given that there has been increased participation, why is it that men still hold around 80% of coaching positions in the European Women’s Football league? This article explores the possible reasons and causes behind the lack of women coaching.
Facilitating physical activity and physical education participation in autistic children and youth
Introduction and context Participation in physical activity (PA) and physical education (PE) is very important for all children and youth (C&Y) because it helps with physical, social, affective, and cognitive development (Bailey, 2006). Autistic C&Y especially gain from PA and PE as it may help develop their physical and social skills, including cooperation and personal…
Hydration during physical activity
While engaging in physical activity have you ever felt sluggish due to dehydration? With the optimal range of hydration being less than 2-3% body water loss during physical activity, it can be hard to ensure you are staying properly hydrated. A recent study gives guidelines and suggestions in order to consume the optimal amount of…
Sleep in athletes
Sleep is a basic and common biological activity in human beings. Sleep is vital for recovery or replenishments of energy loss during daily functional activities. This is especially true in athletes that physically exert themselves regularly. A recent study shows that lack of sleep in athletes can predispose them to chronic injury and hinder sports…
Cognitive benefits of exercise in youth
When we think about physical activity we often only think of the physical benefits. Recent research also highlights the cognitive benefits. Exercise can increase blood flow to the learning centers of the brain by up to 30% and has a positive association with academic behaviour in 86% of cases.
Occupational therapy and athletic retirement
Retiring from a sport can be tough for many athletes. Occupational therapists (OTs) can help athletes transition to new occupations and routines following retirement. Research shows that throughout the transition process, OTs can perform a task analysis of anticipated roles, evaluate skills and make recommendations for environmental or task adaptations to increase functioning and participation.
Impact of Emotion on Sport
Emotions can communicate a lot of information about a person’s thoughts and intentions without verbally saying anything. In a sport setting these emotions can rub off on others whether that be teammates or viewers. This blog details why it is important to manage emotions during sport and strategies surrounding emotional control.
Taking a person-first approach to high performance sport in Canada
At the Canada Summer Games 2022 in Niagara, an event for up-and-coming athletes, the power of sport to transform lives was on full display with stories that showcased the pure joy, excitement and fun sport can offer. Teenage wrestler Eekeeluak Avalak became Nunavut’s first ever gold medalist in the Games and an emotional video clip…