Hydrotherapy and chronic low back pain
Hydrotherapy is a form of exercise therapy that is done in the water and has been shown to improve neuromuscular and musculoskeletal functions. Water has unique properties which allows people to perform exercises that can’t be done on the ground and can provide a more comfortable experience for people suffering from physical dysfunction. According to…
Physical activity and cancer
Many cancer patients are afraid to engage in physical activity because they are concerned that it will negatively impact them. However, research shows that physical activity is important for cancer patients as it improves quality of life, increases aerobic fitness, positively influences mental health, and reduces the side effects of cancer treatment.
Youth sport participation and physical activity in rural communities
Children and youth in rural areas move around and play sports differently depending on their grade, gender, and family income. This study found disparities in sport participation and activity levels, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to promote physical activity and health equity among rural youth.
Nutrients and noncommunicable diseases
With Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) like stroke, heart attack, and cancer, being the leading cause of mortality worldwide, it is important to take steps to mitigate risk. A study done on Korean adults found that increased intakes of multiple individual nutrients, from fruits and vegetables, were linked with a lower risk of NCDs.
Does massage therapy impact sport performance?
Massage therapy is a highly popular practice among modern athletes, ranging from the community to professional level. Despite its popularity, a recent study found that its application had no significant negative or positive effects on motor performance, except for enhancing flexibility. However, there may still be benefits for various psychological states, including decreases in depression,…
Napping and increased performance
Sleep plays a crucial role in all aspects of activity, particularly in sports. A recent study on 291 adult male participants revealed that combining a regular night of sleep with a nap resulted in enhanced cognitive and physical performance, as well as reduced perception of fatigue.
Youth baseball and softball player injuries
Baseball and softball are widely enjoyed by young athletes and contribute to the yearly tally of sports-related injuries. A recent study revealed that injuries among youth baseball players often occur due to contact, with a greater occurrence of head, neck, and facial injuries. On the other hand, softball injuries commonly affect the lower limbs and…
Pregnancy and exercise
Engaging in consistent physical activity throughout pregnancy offers a myriad of benefits. A recent study revealed that tailoring exercise routines to match a woman’s pre-pregnancy fitness level can effectively mitigate various pregnancy-related disorders, including gestational diabetes, hypertensive disorders, anxiety, prenatal depression, and numerous other health conditions.
Plyometrics and sport performance
Strength and conditioning are key in all areas of sport. One method of strength training is plyometric training, which is a series of explosive body weight resistance exercises. A recent study finds that sport performance consisting of throwing capacity, jumping ability, and sprint performance significantly improved due to plyometric training interventions.
Nutrition and mental health
Mental health is an integral and essential component of human health, and an unhealthy lifestyle can be associated with poor mental health. A recent study encourages the integration of micro- and macronutrients in a well-balanced and varied diet, accompanied by a healthy lifestyle, for preservation of normal brain function and well-being.