Knowledge Nuggets

SIRC’s Knowledge Nuggets provide a daily source of insight, leveraging the latest in research findings, promising practices, relevant news and practical resources.

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Preventing and treating heat illnesses in a warming climate

August 1, 2025
With an increasing number of heat waves happening across the country, you may be more likely to experience exertional heat stress during the summer months. This happens when physical activity increases heat production, surpassing the body’s cooling capacity. Sport participants should be monitored for signs of heat stress to prevent severe illness and heat stroke.

Mentorship program for parasport coaches 

August 1, 2025
Mentorship can be a powerful way to support parasport coaches. A recent study found that a virtual mentorship program helped coaches feel more confident, use inclusive terminology, and learn more about coaching athletes with disabilities. The study recommends continuing mentorship programs to help coaches progress, connect, and grow in their roles. 

Spotting the hidden signs of burnout  

July 31, 2025
New research found that athletes who feel like they’re not making progress or no longer value their sport are more likely to underperform—regardless of whether they are physically exhausted. These warning signs of burnout highlight the need for coaches and sport leaders to check in on athletes’ motivation, not just their physical load.

Using VR to train attention in sport

July 30, 2025
A new study found that immersive virtual reality (VR) training helped athletes stay more focused during competition. For coaches and sport organizations, this suggests VR can be a powerful tool to simulate pressure-filled scenarios and sharpen in-game focus and decision-making.

Why clear definitions of maltreatment matter in sport  

July 29, 2025
A recent scoping review led by researchers at the University of Toronto and University of Calgary shows that inconsistent definitions of athlete maltreatment are limiting efforts to prevent harm. By mapping 30 years of research, this work lays the groundwork for national tools to better protect athletes.  

The impact of sports schools on student athletes

July 28, 2025
As athlete development grows more specialized, sports schools have grown in popularity as a way to balance academics and training. This review explores how they impact student-athletes holistically, highlighting both the highs and lows across physical, academic, and psychosocial development.

Sport-for-development (SFD) program evaluation

July 25, 2025
Sport-for-development (SFD) programs use sport as a tool to support social, educational, or health outcomes, especially for youth. A recent study with over 2,600 young participants showed strong survey response rates, suggesting youth are engaged and willing to share their experiences in these programs. Researchers also offered suggestions to improve how SFD programs are evaluated...

Physical Activity and Concussion Recovery

July 24, 2025
After a concussion, current guidelines recommend an early return to physical activity if it does not make symptoms worse. A study found that a 20-minute exercise session enhanced executive function in participants. Additionally, they reported a reduction in symptoms within 24 hours of the intervention. This reinforces that healthcare professionals can prescribe physical activity programs...

Concussion non-disclosure in women’s rugby

July 23, 2025
Disclosing concussion symptoms is crucial for proper recovery and to prevent a second impact. A study of female rugby players found that many conceal their symptoms due to concerns about work, limited awareness, and poor communication around concussion management. Recognizing these barriers can help team managers develop initiatives that encourage symptom disclosure and enhance education.

Monitoring Athletes’ Mental Fatigue

July 22, 2025
Athletes are susceptible to mental fatigue, which can negatively impact both their physical performance and technical skills. Researchers found that mental fatigue in athletes varied significantly during the pre-season and decreased as competition neared. Which means, monitoring athletes’ mental fatigue could help practitioners better tailor recovery strategies — especially during the pre-season.

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