Sports
Articles tagged with Sports
How effective are torpedo bats, exactly? #ASA190
Whip it good: How Olympic weightlifting relies on a barbell’s ‘whip’ #ASA190
‘Super shoes’ can improve running performance but may contribute to injury
Researchers at Mass General Brigham found that advanced footwear technology improves running performance in elite distance runners, but also causes subtle changes in running mechanics linked to bone stress injuries. Rotating shoes and gradually adapting to AFT may help reduce potential injury risk while optimizing performance.
Advancing research in the future of sport
The partnership aims to bring academia and practice closer together, creating new momentum for research, teaching, and society. Researchers from Goethe University's Faculty of Sports Sciences are now based at Eintracht Frankfurt's Sportquartier im Stadtwald.
Having a religious affiliation doesn’t prevent betting on sports
A new study found that Catholic men are the most likely group to engage in sports gambling in the US, contradicting the long-held assumption that religion discourages such behavior. Researchers also discovered that people who infrequently attend religious services are more likely to gamble on sports than those who attend regularly.
University Hospitals launches new specialized care program for female athletes
The new program addresses unique challenges faced by female athletes, including injury prevention, hormonal health, pelvic floor issues, and heart health. It offers coordinated care through a team of experts in orthopedic sports medicine, primary care, and other specialties.
Referee decisions in soccer are frequently overturned following VAR-assisted review, but with no external influences found
A study analyzing VAR decisions across 1,520 English Premier League matches found that referees overturn their original calls 95% of the time after video review. However, these decisions were not statistically linked to factors such as crowd size, score, or quarter when the call was made.
Sport clubs became lifelines during public health crisis, research shows
During the Covid-19 crisis, small community sports clubs in Brazilian favelas adapted to meet urgent needs by distributing food parcels, sharing public health information, and transporting residents to vaccination centres. These efforts strengthened trust and cooperation with local communities.
Deputy editor-in-chief of Translational Exercise Biomedicine co-edit the 4th edition of FIMS Sports Physician Handbook
Professor Yannis Pitsiladis and Professor Fabio Pigozzi co-edit the 4th edition of Sports Physician Handbook, featuring contributions from world-leading physicians and scientists. The handbook covers key areas of sports medicine, including injury prevention, psychology of recovery, and care for young athletes.
Science confirms torpedo bat works as well as regular bat
A study by Washington State University researchers found that the torpedo bat and traditional bat perform equally well in hitting power, with only a slight difference in sweet spot location. The researchers discovered that the ideal spot to hit the ball is closer on a torpedo bat, resulting in slower ball speed and distance.
Simple ECG test could flag racehorses at risk of exercise arrhythmias
A simple ECG test can identify racehorses at risk of cardiac arrhythmias during high-intensity exercise. The test uses short ECG recordings taken at rest or light exercise to distinguish horses likely to develop premature beats.
UTEP study: Six weeks of boxing training significantly lowers blood pressure in young adults
A UTEP study reveals that six weeks of boxing training can reduce blood pressure and improve vascular function in young adults with elevated blood pressure or Stage 1 hypertension. The results show significant reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, comparable to those achieved through medication.
Music may not boost focus or mood during exercise, review suggests
A large review of studies found no consistent effect of music on focus or mood during exercise, with results varying depending on intensity and participant characteristics. The findings suggest that broad claims about music's benefits are not always supported and highlight the need for more rigorous study designs.
Global warming and heat stress risk close in on the Tour de France
A recent study analyzing 50 years of climate data shows that the Tour de France has so far avoided extreme heat conditions, but the risk is increasingly high. The researchers found that regions like Paris and Lyon are becoming new heat stress hotspots, highlighting the need to adapt schedules, routes, and safety protocols.
A shift from the sandlot to the travel team for youth sports
Researchers found that youths born in the 1990s spent more time playing formal sports compared to their peers, with those from higher social class backgrounds dominating these opportunities. This shift away from informal play raises concerns about the costs and benefits of commercialized youth sports.
New national study: 94% of professional athletes support the right to engage in activism
A new national study by the University of Southern California's Race and Equity Center found that 94% of professional athletes believe they should be allowed to engage in political activism. The study highlights the power of pro athletes' platforms and encourages them to use their influence to promote racial justice and activism.
Researchers recommend a verification phase for measuring adolescents’ maximal oxygen uptake
A Finnish study found that verifying adolescents' maximal oxygen uptake requires a brief phase to ensure reliable results. The researchers also discovered that different time averaging strategies can significantly affect the final measurement values, highlighting the need for explicit strategy specification.
Olympic Games and climate action: Time for a fundamental shift
The Olympic Games' substantial carbon footprint highlights the need for a profound overhaul to comply with the Paris Agreement. Researchers recommend scaling down events, reducing air travel and increasing use of renewable energy to achieve ambitious emission reduction targets.
Sport: ‘Football fever’ peaks on match day
A study published in Scientific Reports found that football fans' mean stress level was 41% higher on the day of a major match compared to non-match days. Participants experienced increased heart rates, peaking during the match, and were more likely to engage in risky behaviors such as drinking alcohol.
Physical fitness of transgender and cisgender women is comparable, current evidence suggests
A pooled data analysis of 52 studies involving 6485 people found that transgender women have similar upper and lower body strength, cardiorespiratory fitness, and muscle mass compared to cisgender women. However, their physical fitness is comparable despite greater muscle mass 1-3 years after hormone therapy.
Two fundamental coordination patterns in underwater dolphin kick identified
Researchers identified two fundamental coordination patterns in underwater dolphin kick, accounting for over 99% of movement across performance levels. Faster swimmers exhibited greater shoulder extension and increased lower trunk movement, enabling reduced water resistance and improved propulsion.
Curt Cignetti named 2025 Paul “Bear” Bryant Coach of the Year
American Heart Association names Indiana University head coach Curt Cignetti national college football Coach of the Year, marking a dramatic turnaround in his second season. The award honors exceptional leadership and excellence, with proceeds benefiting heart health research and awareness.
Mix of different types of physical activity may be best for longer life
Research published in BMJ Medicine found that a mix of different types of physical activity may be best for prolonging the lifespan. Variety rather than total quantity alone is linked to a lower risk of death, with some activities associated with a 15% lower risk of death from all causes.
Can Canada’s health systems handle increased demand during FIFA World Cup?
A recent editorial cautions that Canada's health systems may struggle to cope with the influx of patients during the upcoming FIFA World Cup. The article highlights concerns about overburdened hospitals and emergency departments, as well as the need for a national plan to bolster capacity and train personnel.
Kennesaw State University’s Jerry Mack named Paul “Bear” Bryant Newcomer Coach of the Year
Jerry Mack, Kennesaw State University coach, received the American Heart Association's Paul 'Bear' Bryant Newcomer Coach of the Year Award for his historic season. He led the Owls to a 10-4 record and Conference USA championship, marking only the fourth time a team has won 10 or more games in its second year of FBS reclassification.
Female athlete health, well-being focus of updated report
A new consensus statement provides evidence-based guidance for screening, diagnosis, treatment, and return-to-play protocols for female athletes. The updated report includes a first-of-its-kind adolescent model of the Female Athlete Triad, addressing energy deficiency in growing adolescents.
Can exercise turn back the clock on your brain? New study says yes
A 12-month aerobic exercise program reduced brain age by 0.6 years, while a control group showed a slight increase. The study suggests that following current exercise guidelines may help keep the brain biologically younger in midlife, supporting clearer thinking and stronger memory.
Parasports provide a range of benefits for people with cerebral palsy
A review in Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology summarizes the benefits of parasport participation for individuals with cerebral palsy. The authors highlight its value in combining therapeutic physical activity with social inclusion and community integration.
Sports injuries sustained during your period might be more severe
Research found that menstrual cycle fluctuations do not increase injury incidence but can lead to more severe and longer-lasting injuries. Female athletes may need to adapt their training schedules according to their menstrual cycle to reduce injury risk.
Artificial turf in the Nordic climate – a question of sustainability
A new study by Linköping University finds artificial turf pitches more environmentally sustainable than natural turf when recycled and maintained properly. However, there are reservations due to production impact and maintenance emissions that can be mitigated with electrified machinery.
Does losing weight make an athlete better?
A study found that reducing body fat percentage improves long-distance running and cross-country skiing performance, but converting body fat into muscle tissue is a more effective way for female athletes to optimize their body composition. Training and dietary habits that promote muscle growth outweigh the benefits of weight loss.
Global sports industry holds untapped potential for wildlife conservation
Research reveals that threatened species are overrepresented in professional sports emblems, offering a powerful new avenue for biodiversity conservation partnerships. Fans' emotional connections with team mascots can mobilize audiences to support conservation initiatives.
Turning team spirit into wildlife action
A new international study reveals that nearly 25% of professional sports teams worldwide feature a wild animal in its name, logo, or fan identity, with over half of these teams using threatened species. The researchers argue that sport organisations could actively support conservation through awareness campaigns and partnerships.
Gender-specific supportive environment key to cutting female athletes’ injury risks
Creating a safe space free from body shaming is key to minimising female athletes' future risks of injury and protecting their health. The FAIR Consensus Statement provides practical recommendations for promoting gender-specific supportive environments in sports.
Pro fighters risk damage to the brain’s ‘garbage disposal’
Repeated head impacts in professional boxers and mixed martial artists can lead to cognitive decline and neurodegenerative disorders. The glymphatic system, responsible for clearing waste from the brain, is compromised in fighters with higher numbers of knockouts.
Will my kid be a pro athlete? Study finds what parents think
A new study found that most parents have realistic expectations of their children's future athletic achievement, but a minority believes their kids will beat the odds. Parents who think their child has a strong athletic identity are up to 80% more likely to believe they'll become a college athlete.
How early morning practices affect college athletes’ sleep
A study of over 27,000 collegiate athlete sleep records found that early morning team practices lead to reduced sleep time and lower sleep efficiency scores. Male athletes averaged 30 minutes less sleep, while female athletes averaged 20 minutes less, with both experiencing longer wake-up times and reduced sleep quality.
Key body fat thresholds linked to performance in professional soccer players: According to a Brazilian study
A Brazilian study established clear cutoff points for body fat measurements strongly associated with physical performance of male professional soccer players. Body fat percentage, abdominal skinfold thickness, and sum of three skinfolds were linked to aerobic endurance tests.
The biggest threats to maintaining fat bike trails: Climate change and volunteer burnout
Research highlights the challenges of maintaining fat bike trails due to climate disruption and volunteer burnout. The study calls for seasonal strategies to distribute workload, create binational events, and implement recognition programs.
Study finds improvement in knee pain with exercise and physical therapy
A new study led by Mass General Brigham researchers found that a home exercise program combined with standard or sham physical therapy improved knee pain for participants with osteoarthritis and meniscal tears. The addition of regular visits with a physical therapist resulted in slightly greater pain relief, suggesting the importance o...
Generative AI can help athletes avoid injuries
Researchers developed a generative AI model, BIGE, to generate optimal motions for athletes to avoid injuries and aid in rehabilitation. The model can produce realistic videos of motions that athletes can mimic during training or execute while injured.
Coaches can boost athletes’ mental toughness with this leadership style
A new study by Binghamton University found that transformational leadership techniques can improve athletic performance by fostering self-determination and personal growth. Coaches can enhance mental toughness by focusing on team goals and individualized feedback, leading to stronger player-coach relationships.
Why do so many pro soccer players develop osteoarthritis?
Researchers found a significant link between foot/ankle injuries and osteoarthritis in retired pro soccer players. Players who received cortisosteroid injections for injuries were also more likely to develop osteoarthritis.
Mike Leach honored with Paul “Bear” Bryant Heart of a Champion Award
Mike Leach, the mastermind of the air raid offense, will be recognized posthumously for his exceptional contributions to college football. The American Heart Association's Paul “Bear” Bryant Heart of a Champion Award honors Leach's larger-than-life impact on the game and communities he touched.
Pickleball-related ocular injuries among patients presenting to emergency departments
A significant increase in pickleball-related ocular injuries has been reported among patients presenting to emergency departments. Eye protection guidelines are not currently in place, highlighting the need for standardized measures to reduce the risk of such injuries.
Scrap the ‘shrink it and pink it’ approach to women’s running shoes – SFU study
A Simon Fraser University study confirms that women's running shoes are not designed for female runners, prioritizing comfort, fit, and injury prevention. Researchers found that shoe designs shift over time with age and pregnancy, and competitive runners seek performance-enhancing features without sacrificing comfort.
Paul “Bear” Bryant Awards announce 2025 Coach of the Year Award watch list
The American Heart Association has released its 2025 Coach of the Year Award watch list, featuring 28 college football coaches. The award, presented annually, recognizes coaching excellence that promotes grit, integrity, and a winning approach to both on-field performance and off-field life.
Stronger parent-club relationships key to keeping kids in sport and rebuilding the volunteer workforce
Community sporting clubs must prioritize personalized onboarding, clear communication, and recognition to foster stronger family connections. The study found that parents who feel supported by clubs are more likely to keep their children engaged in sport long-term.
Ditch ‘shrink it and pink it’ approach to women’s running shoes, manufacturers urged
A study finds that women runners prioritize comfort, injury prevention, and performance when choosing running shoes, highlighting a need for sex- and gender-specific designs that accommodate female foot morphology across the lifespan. The researchers recommend moving beyond scaling down men's shoes to fit women's feet.
Phillip Fulmer selected as recipient of Paul “Bear” Bryant Lifetime Achievement Award
Phillip Fulmer, legendary University of Tennessee football coach, is the recipient of the American Heart Association’s 2026 Paul “Bear” Bryant Lifetime Achievement Award. The honor recognizes his outstanding career achievements and contributions to the sport.
What makes a great coach?
Researchers found that successful coaches engage in post-season introspection, focus on creating a good team culture, and involve athletes in finding solutions. By practicing critical self-reflection and learning from failure, coaches can sustain success in the long term.
Time-restricted eating can boost athletes' health and performance
Researchers found that time-restricted feeding can improve body composition, boost immunity and prevent metabolic disorders in high-performance athletes. Combining HIIT with time-restricted eating may yield greater improvements in performance without significant adverse effects.
Why exercise could actually save your heartbeats - not waste them
Fitter individuals have lower resting heart rates and use fewer total heartbeats per day compared to sedentary people. Regular exercise can improve heart function and reduce long-term cardiovascular risk, according to new Australian research.
Football: Innovative performance diagnostics for girls
The SCoRE method assesses key football-related skills such as game overview, creativity, and passing in game-like scenarios, finding agility to be a central role. Developed by University of Würzburg researchers, the diagnostic tool is valid, reliable, and objective, providing actionable feedback for coaches.
A rapid rise of private club and travel teams in youth sports
A recent study reveals that private club and travel teams in youth sports have surged, with kids from high-educated parents and affluent backgrounds more likely to participate. The shift towards elite sports positions has led to increased costs and commitments for families, exacerbating social inequalities.
Major study reveals stark inequalities in children’s in-school physical activity across English Primary Schools
A large-scale study of over 17,000 pupils and 2,300 teachers found dramatic differences in physical activity levels across England, with some schools achieving double or triple the levels of others. The research highlights growing evidence that children in deprived areas face bigger barriers to physical activity, even during school hours.
Soccer headers and brain health: Study finds changes within folds of the brain
A study published in Neurology found that amateur soccer players who frequently head the ball experience changes within the folds of their brain, including disruptions in a specific layer of white matter. This association was linked to poorer performance on thinking and memory tests.
How NIL boosts college football’s competitive balance
A groundbreaking study challenges conventional wisdom on NIL policies in college football, demonstrating they enhance competitive balance and broaden opportunities for athletes. The research shows that NIL has led to a wider distribution of talent across college programs, directly benefiting athletes seeking to maximize their brands an...
Highly sensitive, next-generation wearable pressure sensors inspired by cat whiskers
Researchers developed novel biomisic fiber/sodium alginate aerogels for flexible pressure sensors, mimicking cat vibrissae and FSCs to achieve excellent sensitivity, durability, and rapid response. The sensors demonstrated promising applications in human physiological monitoring, motion analysis, and sports analytics.