In Search of Inspiration: Re-thinking the Potential for Demonstration Effects
Major sport events in Canada and around the world have been cancelled in the wake of the COVID-19 global pandemic. For sport administrators, researchers and policymakers, this pause represents a unique opportunity to reflect on the desired impacts and legacies of future sport events. Event bids are often full of claims about the positive impacts…
The Psychological Implications of Returning to Sport Post-Isolation
As public health restrictions begin to lift across the country, the return to some form of sport participation will require adjustment and adaptation. As athletes return to sport, the virus is still present, and so is the uncertainty. The cancellation of sport events and the imposition of stay-at-home and physical distancing protocols over the last…
Impact of COVID-19 on physical activity
As Canadians retreated to their homes to limit the spread of COVID-19, researchers from the University of the Fraser Valley launched a study to examine how life in lockdown would affect physical activity and wellbeing. Research results show those who became more active during the pandemic reported lower anxiety than those who spent less time in outdoor physical activity;…
Youth & COVID-19
“It’s quite possible that youth are having difficulties coping with the lack of structured learning, friendly competition, and most of all, social interaction with teammates that comes with participation in sport.” University of Alberta youth sport researcher Nick Holt recommends keeping kids connected to the benefits of sport through backyard practices, engagement in fun social…
7 A’s of Active Aging
Older male adults can be a particularly hard-to-reach group when it comes to physical activity programming. In this SIRC blog, researchers break down the 7 A’s of Active Aging to improve understanding on how to design and deliver tailored physical activity programs.
Setting Goals
Having trouble getting active? Goals are a great way to stay motivated. Set a physical activity goal and create a detailed plan for when, where, and how you will achieve it. Review your goal on a weekly or bi-weekly basis to celebrate progress, increase the challenge, or adjust expectations (too aspirational? Reset your goal and…
National Health and Fitness Day 2020
Only 16% of Canadian adults meet Canada’s physical activity guidelines. In preparation for National Health and Fitness Day tomorrow, check out our new fact sheet on evidence-based tips for getting active. (Spoiler: Set a goal, create an action plan, track your activity, get feedback, review and reset!)
Isolation & Health
Social isolation and loneliness have been linked to increased risk of heart disease, stroke, depression, and other health conditions. While physical distancing measures are necessary to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, finding strategies to maintain and improve health – such as physical activity – are more important than ever.
Hunger & HIIT Workouts
Wonder why you’re not hungry after HIIT workouts? New research from Wilfred Laurier University reports that lactate produced during hard interval workouts influences appetite-associated hormones, causing post-exercise appetite suppression.
Physical Activity & Well-being
With many Canadians continuing to work from home, finding ways to “detach” from work are increasingly difficult. But according to a recent study, engaging in regular physical activity can improve mood and enhance life satisfaction, both of which contribute to subjective well-being on the job (even if it’s in your home).