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Miller K, Morley C, Fraser BJ, Gall SL, Cleland V. Types of leisure-time physical activity participation in childhood and adolescence, and physical activity behaviours and health outcomes in adulthood: a systematic review. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1789. [PMID: 38965532 PMCID: PMC11225122 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-19050-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Youth leisure-time physical activity participation benefits physical activity habits and health outcomes later in life. However, it is unknown if certain types of leisure-time physical activity contribute to these benefits in different ways; this knowledge could enhance public health efforts. This systematic review aimed to synthesise evidence of the longitudinal associations between childhood and adolescent leisure-time physical activity on adulthood physical activity behaviours and health outcomes. METHODS A systematic search of the literature was conducted across five databases from inception to July 2022. English, peer-reviewed observational studies with a minimum of two timepoints of data collection were eligible for inclusion. We included studies that investigated the association between participation in leisure-time physical activity types in children and adolescents (i.e., 5-18 years), and physical activity, mental health, or cardiovascular outcomes in adulthood (i.e., ≥ 18 years). RESULTS Fourteen studies were included in the review, totalling 34,388 observations across five countries. Running in adolescence was associated with increased adulthood physical activity in both sexes, while sports involvement was associated with an increase in physical activity in males only. Adolescent team sports participation was associated with reduced odds of early adulthood depression, with varying findings for anxiety disorders. There was preliminary evidence of minimum threshold requirements for participation in certain activities before associations with future physical activity or health outcome benefits were observed. CONCLUSIONS Preliminary findings suggest that the lifelong behavioural and health benefits of adolescent participation in leisure-time physical activity appear to be related to the type of activity undertaken, with potential differences between sexes. With the rarity of longitudinal studies spanning from childhood into adulthood, these findings provide important insights for public health strategies to optimise lifelong health and physical activity participation. PROSPERO REGISTRATION CRD42022347792.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelcie Miller
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool St, Hobart, 7000, Australia
| | - Claire Morley
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool St, Hobart, 7000, Australia
| | - Brooklyn J Fraser
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool St, Hobart, 7000, Australia
| | - Seana L Gall
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool St, Hobart, 7000, Australia
- School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Verity Cleland
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool St, Hobart, 7000, Australia.
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia.
- , Private Bag 23, Hobart, 7001, Australia.
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Butler LS, Janosky J, Knell G, Ulman S, Latz K. Are Recreational Sports a Relic of the Past OR a Solution for the Future? Curr Sports Med Rep 2024; 23:62-68. [PMID: 38437489 DOI: 10.1249/jsr.0000000000001148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Children's participation in sport is a critical component to their physical and social development and as such, efforts should be made to provide all children with the opportunity to play. In recent years, there has been an observed shift in the focus of youth sports from that of participation for the health benefits of physical activity and fun to that of winning and competing. As a result, there has been a rise in club sports offerings and a subsequent reduction in recreational sports opportunities. This change presents unique challenges to children's access to sport and may not adequately support their overall physical, social, and emotional development. This commentary will discuss the benefits and barriers to increasing recreational sport opportunities using the Social Ecological Model as a framework. It also will propose solutions that can be implemented at the intrapersonal, interpersonal, organizational, community, and public policy levels to revive recreational sports.
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Robbins LB, Ling J, Chang MW. Organized Physical Activity Program Participation, Physical Activity, and Related Psychosocial Factors Among Urban Adolescents. J Sch Nurs 2023; 39:475-486. [PMID: 34424095 DOI: 10.1177/10598405211038962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The study purpose was to examine whether adolescents who participated in organized physical activity (PA) programs differed from nonparticipants in motivation, social support, and self-efficacy related to PA; PA (min/hr); and sedentary screen time behavior. Thirty-nine 5th-7th grade adolescents participated in organized PA programs; 41 did not. Approximately 56.3% were Black, and 52.5% had annual family incomes <$20,000. Compared to nonparticipants, those who participated reported significantly higher social support (M = 2.32 vs. 3.13, p < .001) and fewer hours watching television or movies on a usual weekend day (M = 2.49 vs. 1.59, p = .016); and had higher accelerometer-measured vigorous PA (M = 0.58 vs. 1.04, p = .009) and moderate-to-vigorous PA (M = 2.48 vs. 3.45, p = .035). Involving adolescents in organized PA programs may be important for improving their moderate-to-vigorous PA, vigorous PA, and related psychosocial factors, as well as reducing sedentary screen time behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jiying Ling
- College of Nursing, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Mei-Wei Chang
- College of Nursing, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
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Khan A, Werner-Seidler A, Hidajat T, Feng J, Huang WY, Rosenbaum S. Association Between Sports Participation and Psychosocial Wellbeing of Australian Children: An 8-year Longitudinal Study. J Adolesc Health 2023; 73:1117-1124. [PMID: 37656103 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2023.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Sports participation is associated with children's health and wellbeing; however, existing evidence is predominantly based on cross-sectional studies. This study examined the longitudinal association of sports participation with psychosocial wellbeing of Australian children. METHODS Data were from five waves of the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children aged 6-7 years in 2010 (n = 4,242) and followed up until 2018. Outcomes were assessed using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire and the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory. Sports participation was measured using two items assessing regular participation in team and individual sports. RESULTS Multilevel mixed effects modeling showed that any sports participation was beneficially associated with psychosocial wellbeing. Boys who participated in team sports had 1.78 point lower difficulties score (β = -1.78; 95% confidence interval: --2.01,-1.55), while this was 0.58 points lower for individual sports (β =-0.58; -0.81,-0.34). In girls, difficulties score was 1.22 point lower for team sports (β = -1.22; -1.44,-1.00) and 0.49 point lower for individual sports (β = -0.49; -0.71,-0.26). Sports participation was positively associated with better quality of life with team sports (β = 4.72; 4.15,5.28 for boys; β = 3.44; 2.87,4.00 for girls) offering more benefits than individual sports (β = 1.00; 0.83,1.98 for boys; β = 1.40; 0.83,1.98 for girls). Participation in both team and individual sports had the strongest benefits. Prolonged engagement in sports was associated with better psychosocial wellbeing in a dose-dependent manner. DISCUSSION Regular participation in any sports can benefit children's wellbeing with team sports being more beneficial than individual sports. Encouraging children to regularly participate and remain engaged in sports can help to optimize their psychosocial wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asaduzzaman Khan
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.
| | | | - Tarissa Hidajat
- School of Education, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Jie Feng
- Department of Sport, Physical Education and Health, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Wendy Yajun Huang
- Department of Sport, Physical Education and Health, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China; Dr Stephen Hui Research Centre for Physical Recreation and Wellness, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Simon Rosenbaum
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
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Gesek M, Fornal AD, Zarzycka D. Promoting Health in Pediatric Obesity: A Decade's Research of Physical Activity's Influence on Cardiometabolic Parameters. Med Sci Monit 2023; 29:e940742. [PMID: 37771141 PMCID: PMC10546901 DOI: 10.12659/msm.940742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The global prevalence of childhood obesity highlights an urgent need to address its associated health complications. Cardiometabolic indicators, closely linked with obesity, can pose severe health risks, emphasizing the need for effective interventions. Among these, physical activity has shown many health benefits. However, a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between physical activity and cardiometabolic indicators in obese children remains somewhat unclear. This integrative review aims to fill this knowledge gap by critically examining relevant research over the past decade, thereby providing insights into evidence-based strategies to improve health outcomes in this vulnerable population. We conducted an integrative literature review of articles published between 2012 and 2022, retrieved from databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and EBSCO. Our focus was limited to Polish and English-language research with full text availability. We deployed keywords such as "physical activity", "children", "cardiometabolic indicators" and "BMI" linked using Boolean operators "and" and "or". Methodological quality was independently assessed by two authors, and Rayyan software was utilized for review compilation. Out of the assessed articles, 55 met the inclusion criteria. The majority centered around programs and interventions targeting children, examining their impact on body composition, alterations in body fat content, waist circumference, body mass index, blood pressure, heart rate, lipoprotein, triglycerides, total cholesterol, glucose, and insulin levels. Interventions focusing on increasing physical activity and reducing sedentary behavior demonstrate positive effects on body composition, aerobic capacity, and select biochemical markers in children. This underscores the potential of physical activity as a valuable tool in managing obesity-related health risks among children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Gesek
- Department of Pediatric and Pediatric Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
- Department of Integrated Nursing Care, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Aleksandra D. Fornal
- Department of Pediatric and Pediatric Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
- Department of Integrated Nursing Care, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Danuta Zarzycka
- Department of Pediatric and Pediatric Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
- Department of Integrated Nursing Care, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
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Srivastav P, Vaishali K, Rajwar E, Broadbent S, Bhat HV. Factors associated with physical activity participation among children: a systematic review protocol. Syst Rev 2023; 12:70. [PMID: 37106415 PMCID: PMC10134558 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-023-02226-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reduced physical activity (PA) is one of the significant health concerns in adults and children alike. Despite the proven benefits of PA, most children, globally, do not meet the weekly criteria of enough PA to maintain health. The proposed systematic review is the review of the factors and will provide information on the factors associated with PA participation in children. METHODS The proposed systematic review will be conducted based on the methodology from the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. We will include observational studies (cross-sectional, case-control, and cohort studies), randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and non-randomized study designs for information on factors associated with PA participation among children. Studies with participants in the age range of 5-18 years, indulging in physical activity of 60 min per day for a minimum of 3 days a week, will be included. Studies including differently abled children, children under medical treatment, and those taking medications for illnesses such as neurological, cardiac, and mental health conditions will be excluded from the review. We will search MEDLINE (via PubMed and Web of Science), Scopus, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane CENTRAL, and PEDro for English language publications published from the inception till October 2022. For additional studies, we will search websites such as the Australian Association for Adolescent Health International Association for Adolescent Health and a reference list of the included publications. Selection of studies, data extraction, and quality assessment of the included studies will be performed in duplicate. Quality assessment of the included studies will be performed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool (ROB-II) for RCTs, New-Castle Ottawa, for observational studies, and ROBINS-I (Risk of Bias for Non-Randomized studies of Interventions) for non-randomized study designs. DISCUSSION The proposed systematic review and meta-analysis will present a summary of the available evidence on factors associated with PA participation in children. The findings of this review will provide new insights into how exercise providers can improve PA participation among children and can also help healthcare workers, clinicians, researchers, and policymakers to plan long-term interventions targeting child health. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42021270057.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prateek Srivastav
- Department of Physiotherapy, Manipal College of Health Professions, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - K Vaishali
- Department of Physiotherapy, Manipal College of Health Professions, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal, Karnataka, India.
| | - Eti Rajwar
- Public Health Evidence South Asia, Prasanna School of Public Health, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Suzanne Broadbent
- School of Health & Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, Australia
| | - H Vinod Bhat
- The Apollo University, Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh, India
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Tebar WR, Borges LO, Delfino LD, Mota J, Ritti-Dias RM, Christofaro DGD. Association of Early Sports Participation With Sedentary Behavior in Community-Dwelling Adults-The Role of Sociodemographic Factors in a Retrospective Epidemiological Study. J Phys Act Health 2023; 20:374-384. [PMID: 37030666 DOI: 10.1123/jpah.2022-0540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of sociodemographic factors in the association between early sports participation (ESP) and sedentary behavior is unclear. We analyzed the association of ESP with sedentary behavior and identified the influence of sociodemographic factors in adulthood. METHODS A sample of 264 community-dwelling adults was randomly assessed (42.6 [17.0] y old, 57.6% women). Sociodemographic factors (age, gender, and socioeconomic status) and ESP (retrospectively) were assessed by questionnaire. Sedentary behavior was measured by accelerometer and self-reported for domains identification. The association between ESP and sedentary behavior domains and sociodemographic factors was analyzed by Poisson regression and presented in prevalence ratio (PR). Sociodemographic factors were separately included as covariates to identify their role in the main association analysis. RESULTS The ESP prevalence was 56.4% (n = 149). ESP participants included a higher proportion of men (59.7% vs 20.0%), had a lower age (36.8 [15.3] vs 50.8 [15.9]), and included a smaller proportion of individuals with low socioeconomic status (24.8% vs 43.5%) compared with those without ESP. The ESP was inversely associated with older age (PR = 0.58, P < .001 for middle aged; PR = 0.34, P < .001 for older participants), female gender (PR = 0.79, P < .001), low socioeconomic status (PR = 0.63, P = .036), and TV watching (PR = 0.67, P = .011). ESP was associated with driving (PR = 1.50, P = .028), office/paper work (PR = 1.63, P = .012), and using a cellphone (PR = 1.60, P = .009). The age was the main confounding factor of association between ESP and sedentary behavior, followed by socioeconomic status. No mediation role was identified. CONCLUSION The ESP was associated with mentally active behavior domains and inversely associated with mentally passive sedentary behavior domains, but this association was majorly affected by sociodemographic factors, mainly by age.
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Affiliation(s)
- William R Tebar
- Center of Clinical and Epidemiological Research, University Hospital, University of São Paulo, São Paulo,Brazil
| | - Luan O Borges
- Faculty of Science and Technology, São Paulo State University, Presidente Prudente,Brazil
| | - Leandro D Delfino
- Faculty of Science and Technology, São Paulo State University, Presidente Prudente,Brazil
| | - Jorge Mota
- Research Center in Physical Activity, Health and Leisure (CIAFEL)-Faculty of Sports-University of Porto (FADEUP) and Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), Porto,Portugal
| | - Raphael M Ritti-Dias
- Post-Graduate Program in Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidade Nove de Julho, São Paulo,Brazil
| | - Diego G D Christofaro
- Faculty of Science and Technology, São Paulo State University, Presidente Prudente,Brazil
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Pedersen M, King AC. How Can Sport-Based Interventions Improve Health among Women and Girls? A Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:4818. [PMID: 36981727 PMCID: PMC10049722 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20064818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Sport has been identified by the World Health Organization as an underutilized yet important contributor to global physical activity, by UNESCO as a fundamental right, and by the United Nations as a promising driver for gender equity through improved long-term health of women and girls. Although sport-based interventions have been popularized to advance educational, social, and political development globally, little attention has been given to its impacts on health outcomes among women and girls. We undertook a scoping review of research on sport-based interventions for health among women and girls to summarize current research approaches and findings. PRISMA scoping review guidelines were observed. Online databases (PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science) were used to identify peer-reviewed records published through August 2022. The interventions identified (n = 4) targeted health outcomes such as gender-based violence, HIV prevention, reproductive health, and child marriage. Based on our review, we recommend four key opportunities to advance the field of sport-based interventions in addressing health equity among women and girls. In addition, we highlight promising future research directions to broaden sport engagement of women and girls, improve long-term health, and build capacity toward health equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Pedersen
- Stanford Prevention Research Center, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Abby C. King
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, and Stanford Prevention Research Center, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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Haraldsdottir K, McGuine TA, Biese KM, Goodavish L, Watson AM. COVID-19 Planning in United States Adolescent Sports: A Survey of 1880 Organizations Representing More Than 500 000 Youth Athletes. J Athl Train 2023; 58:37-43. [PMID: 36750044 PMCID: PMC9913055 DOI: 10.4085/1062-6050-0296.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT High schools and youth sport organizations that restarted participation in the fall of 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic relied on information sources to develop risk-mitigation procedures. OBJECTIVE To compare the risk-mitigation procedures and information sources used by high school athletic departments and youth sport organizations. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING Surveys of high school and youth sport organization programs from across the United States. PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS A total of 1296 high schools and 584 youth sport organizations, representing 519 241 adolescent athletes, responded to the surveys. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Surveys regarding restarting sport, COVID-19 cases, risk-reduction procedures, and the information sources used to develop risk-reduction plans in the fall of 2020 were distributed to high school athletic directors and youth sport directors throughout the United States. The proportions of high schools and youth sport organizations using different risk-reduction procedures and information sources were compared using the χ2 test. RESULTS High schools used more risk-reduction procedures than did youth sport organizations (high schools = 7.1 ± 2.1 versus youth sport organizations = 6.3 ± 2.4; P < .001) and were more likely than youth sport organizations to use symptom monitoring (high schools = 93% versus youth sport organizations = 85%, χ2 = 26.3; P < .001), temperature checks on site (66% versus 49%, χ2 = 53.4; P < .001), face masks for athletes during play (37% versus 23%, χ2 = 38.1; P < .001) and when off the field (81% versus 71%, χ2 = 26.1; P < .001), social distancing for staff (81% versus 68%, χ2 = 43.3; P < .001) and athletes off the field (83% versus 68%, χ2 = 57.6; P < .001), and increased facility disinfection (92% versus 70%, χ2 = 165.0; P < .001). Youth sport organizations relied more on information from sport national governing bodies than did high schools (youth sport organizations = 52% versus high schools = 10%, χ2 = 411.0; P < .001), whereas high schools were more likely to use information from sources such as the National Athletic Trainers' Association (high schools = 20% versus youth sport organizations = 6%, χ2 = 55.20; P < .001) and the National Federation of State High School Associations (high schools = 72% versus youth sport organizations = 15%, χ2 = 553.00; P < .001) for determining risk-reduction strategies. CONCLUSIONS High schools and youth sport organizations reported using a broad range of risk-reduction procedures, but the average number was higher among high schools than youth sport organizations. Use of information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local health authorities was high overall, but use of information from professional health care organizations was low. Professional health care organizations should consider using additional measures to improve information uptake among stakeholders in youth sports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Haraldsdottir
- Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison
| | - Timothy A. McGuine
- Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison
| | - Kevin M. Biese
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Wisconsin, Madison
| | | | - Andrew M. Watson
- Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison
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Burns RD, Fu Y. Parental Perceived Discrimination and Youth Participation in Out-Of-School Sports. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 9:children9121808. [PMID: 36553252 PMCID: PMC9777264 DOI: 10.3390/children9121808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the associations between perceived parental discrimination and youth participation in out-of-school sports. We analyzed a representative sample of US children and adolescents from the 2020 National Survey of Children’s Health (N = 30,656; 6−17 years old; 49.0% female). The dependent variable was a (No/Yes) response item asking parents about their child’s participation in out-of-school sports. Two binary response items asked parents if they perceived that their child was ever treated or judged unfairly because of their race/ethnicity and because of their sexual orientation/gender identity. Weighted multiple logistic regressions examined correlations between the discrimination variables and out-of-school sports controlling for demographics covariates including family income. After covariate adjustment, perceived parental discrimination because of race/ethnicity associated with 1.57 times higher odds of child participation in sports (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) = 1.57, 95%CI: 1.17−2.03, p = 0.002). Conversely, discrimination because of sexual orientation/gender identity correlated with 57% lower odds of child participation in sports (AOR (Adjusted Odds Ratio) = 0.43, 95%CI: 0.27−0.69, p < 0.001). After family income and other covariates were considered, perceived discrimination by parents because of their child’s race/ethnicity associated with higher probability of sports participation. Perceived discrimination by parents because of their child’s sexual orientation/gender identity associated with a lower probability of participating in sports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan D. Burns
- Department of Health and Kinesiology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-801-695-5035
| | - You Fu
- School of Public Health, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, USA
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Teenage Sport Trajectory Is Associated With Physical Activity, but Not Body Composition or Blood Pressure in Early Adulthood. J Adolesc Health 2022; 71:119-126. [PMID: 35428561 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2022.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Commonly held hypotheses in practice suggest that compared to single-sport participation, multi-sport participation is associated with higher physical activity (PA) levels and health benefits in the long term. To verify this in the general population, we identified sport participation trajectories during adolescence and examined their associations with PA and health outcomes in young adulthood. METHODS Participants (n = 655) from the Nicotine Dependence in Teens study self-reported sport involvement up to four times per year from age 12 to 17 years. At age 24, PA was assessed using questionnaires and accelerometers, and body composition (i.e., body mass index, waist circumference, skinfold thickness) and blood pressure were measured objectively. We used group-based trajectory modeling to identify sport participation trajectories from age 12 to 17. Associations between trajectories and outcomes in early adulthood were estimated in multivariable linear regression models. RESULTS We identified four sport participation trajectories during adolescence: non-participants (n = 148, 22%), dropouts (n = 133, 21%), single-sport (n = 248, 37%), and multi-sport participation (n = 126, 20%). Compared to non-participation, multi-sport participation during adolescence was associated with higher self-reported PA in early adulthood (β [95% confidence interval] = 0.26 [0.00-0.52], MET-minutes/week). No association was detected between sport trajectories and accelerometer-measured PA, body composition or blood pressure in early adulthood. DISCUSSION Our results partially support models suggesting the existence of distinct sport participation trajectories during adolescence and that multi-sport participation is associated with higher self-reported PA levels in adulthood. Our results do not support that sport participation trajectories during adolescence are linked to lower blood pressure or healthier body composition in adulthood.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Children with CHD are at risk for obesity and low levels of activity. These factors are associated with an increased risk of poor outcome. Participation in organised sports is an important avenue for children to maintain physical activity, though the relationship between sports participation and obesity has not been examined in the Fontan population. METHODS We performed a cross-sectional study of children aged 8-18 who had been evaluated between January 1, 2015 and October 1, 2019 at the Doernbecher Children's Hospital outpatient paediatric cardiology clinic and had previously undergone a Fontan. Patients were excluded if they were unable to ambulate independently or if they had undergone a heart transplant. Patient characteristics were recorded from the electronic medical record. Parents were interviewed via a telephone survey and asked to describe their child's activity levels and sports participation. RESULTS Our final cohort included 40 individuals, 74% were male. The overall prevalence of obesity (CDC BMI >95% for sex/age) in the cohort (23%) was significantly higher in non-athletes (33%) than athletes (0) (p = 0.02). There was no difference in cardiac complications or comorbidities between athletes and non-athletes. Athletes were more likely to meet daily activity recommendations (p = 0.05). CONCLUSION Fontan patients who do not participate in sports are significantly more likely to be obese and less likely to be active than those who do. This is the first study to demonstrate the association between competitive sports participation and decreased likelihood of obesity in the Fontan population.
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Hughes LD, Dowshen N, Kidd KM, Operario D, Renjilian C, Gamarel KE. Pediatric Provider Perspectives on Laws and Policies Impacting Sports Participation for Transgender Youth. LGBT Health 2022; 9:247-253. [PMID: 35363079 PMCID: PMC9271330 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2021.0392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Since May 2021, numerous state legislatures in the United States have introduced bills to restrict the participation of transgender and gender diverse (trans) youth in gender-segregated sports in a manner consistent with their gender identity. The purpose of this study was to understand how medical providers of pediatric gender-affirming care for trans youth view these legislative efforts and how they believe these bills will affect their practice and patients. Methods: In March 2021, we recruited participants using listservs known to be frequented by providers of gender-affirming medical care to complete a survey about bills that restrict trans youths' participation in sex-segregated sports. Eligible participants were over the age of 18, currently worked as a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician's assistant, and provided gender-affirming care to trans youth under the age of 18 in the United States. Results: We analyzed the responses of 103 providers from all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Most participants identified as White (77%), cisgender women (70%), and specialized in pediatric care (52%). The most salient theme, described by nearly all participants, was that legislation banning trans youth from sports participation would lead to worsening discrimination and stigmatization. Other themes included worsening mental and physical health of trans youth, forced changes to clinical practice, politicization of trans youth, and efforts required to stop these bills. Conclusions: Providers of gender-affirming care in this study overwhelmingly opposed legislation that bans trans youth from sports participation citing the severe consequences to the well-being of trans youth. More research is needed to examine stakeholder's opinions regarding legislation that does not ban but otherwise restricts sports participation by trans youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Landon D. Hughes
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Nadia Dowshen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Kacie M. Kidd
- Department of Pediatrics, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
| | - Don Operario
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Christopher Renjilian
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Sports Medicine and Performance Center, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Kristi E. Gamarel
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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14
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Parker K, Brown HL, Salmon J. Are There Common Correlates of Adolescents' Sport Participation and Screen Time? RESEARCH QUARTERLY FOR EXERCISE AND SPORT 2022:1-9. [PMID: 35352992 DOI: 10.1080/02701367.2021.1998305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to identify intrapersonal, interpersonal, and environmental correlates of leisure-time participation in sports and examine whether they are also associated with screen-time among adolescents. Methods: Adolescents from eight schools in Victoria, Australia were recruited for this study. Participants (n = 400) comprised of an even distribution of boys (51%) and girls (49%) aged 12-16 years. Their engagement in leisure-time activities (including sports and screen-time) and 13 potential correlates were self-reported. Multinomial logistic regression analyses examined correlates of sports and screen-time participation categories, accounting for clustering by school and adjusting for significant sociodemographic characteristics. Results: The majority (76%) participated in leisure-time sports and exceeded screen-time recommendations (<2 h/day) on both weekdays (69%) and weekend days (85%). Greater internal motivation for sports was positively associated with sports participation and inversely associated with screen-time on weekend days, respectively. Fewer barriers, positive family and coach support and more neighborhood sporting opportunities were significantly associated with greater sports participation. Neighborhood social norms were inversely associated with sports participation. Preference for sports was associated with less weekday and weekend screen-time. Friend support for sports was inversely associated with weekday screen-time. Access to sports facilities in the local neighborhood was associated with more weekday and weekend screen-time. Conclusion: Internal motivation for sports was associated with both sports participation and less screen-time. Preference for leisure-time sports and friend support for sports were associated with less screen-time. Future research should continue to explore common correlates of multiple leisure-time behaviors to inform the development of effective intervention strategies.
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15
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Ríos X, Ventura C, Mateu P. "I Gave Up Football and I Had No Intention of Ever Going Back": Retrospective Experiences of Victims of Bullying in Youth Sport. Front Psychol 2022; 13:819981. [PMID: 35242083 PMCID: PMC8886210 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.819981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Bullying is a global issue that, beyond school, is present in different social contexts, such as sport environments. The main objective of this study was to get to know the experiences of victims of bullying in sport throughout their youth sport training. Semi-structured interviews to four Spanish women and seven Spanish men were carried out, within an age range of 17–27 (Mage = 21 years, SD = 3.69). The following main themes were established by means of a hierarchical content analysis: (a) “bullying characterization,” (b) “dealing with bullying,” and (c) “consequences of bullying.” The results show the presence of physical, verbal and social bullying in the sport context, with the changing room being the space where this type of behavior is most frequently developed. Most victims show an internal attribution (self-blame) for the bullying event, related to their motor skills and their personal physical and psychological characteristics. Double victimization can be observed, at the sport club and at the educational center. Passive strategies are used to deal with the situation, while little support is shown by sport agents (teammates and coaches). The victims, as a consequence of the bullying experience, suffer from short and long-term negative effects on a psychosocial level. The study highlights the necessity to design and implement programs focused on the prevention, detection and intervention of bullying for sport organizations, bearing in mind all the agents that make them up (coaches, management teams, families, and players). Furthermore, the importance of promoting the creation of safe sport environments, free from any kind of violence, is emphasized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xènia Ríos
- Institut Nacional d'Educació Física de Catalunya (INEFC), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Grup d'Investigació Social i Educativa de l'Activitat Física i de l'Esport, (GISEAFE), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carles Ventura
- Institut Nacional d'Educació Física de Catalunya (INEFC), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Grup d'Investigació Social i Educativa de l'Activitat Física i de l'Esport, (GISEAFE), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pau Mateu
- Grup d'Investigació Social i Educativa de l'Activitat Física i de l'Esport, (GISEAFE), Barcelona, Spain.,Universitat de Barcelona (UB), Barcelona, Spain
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Gender Marginalization in Sports Participation through Advertising: The Case of Nike. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18157759. [PMID: 34360052 PMCID: PMC8345737 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18157759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The sport sector functions as a site of health-promotion by encouraging and enabling individuals to invest in their health and giving them tools to do so. This investment is often initiated by, or altered by, role modeling, or seeing other individuals engaging in sport. This could include family or peers but could also include depictions of sport in popular media. Inclusive role-modeling could subsequently encourage more sport participation, thus expanding access to health benefits that arise from sport. However, stereotypical depictions of sports role models could make sports seem like a more exclusive space and discourage participation. We examine a case study of a prominent athletic brand and their advertising to examine the ways they expand or reify stereotypes of gender in sport. Through a qualitative content analysis of 131 commercials released by Nike in the past decade, we explore whether their stated goals of being a socially progressive company extend to genuinely diverse and inclusive portrayals of gender in their commercials. Our results indicate that Nike commercials continue to treat sports as a predominantly and stereotypically masculine realm, therefore marginalizing athletes who are female, who do not fit traditional gender binaries, or who do not display traditionally masculine qualities. We also find that the bulk of athletes portrayed by Nike are those who adhere to gender stereotypes. Despite their purported goal of encouraging individuals to participate in sports, Nike's promotion of gendered sport behaviors may be having an opposite effect for some consumers by discouraging sports participation for those who do not align with the gendered behavior Nike promotes. The stereotyped role modeling of the sport sector portrayed in a majority of Nike commercials could dissuade already marginalized individuals from participating in the health-promoting behaviors available through sport.
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17
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Biese KM, McGuine TA, Haraldsdottir K, Goodavish L, Watson AM. COVID-19 Risk in Youth Club Sports: A nationwide sample representing over 200,000 Athletes. J Athl Train 2021; 56:465819. [PMID: 34038934 PMCID: PMC8675317 DOI: 10.4085/1062-6050-0187.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT The COVID-19 pandemic has affected almost every aspect of life including youth sports. Little data exists on COVID-19 incidences and risk mitigation strategies in youth club sports. OBJECTIVE To determine the reported incidence of COVID-19 cases among youth club sport athletes and the information sources used to develop COVID-19 risk mitigation procedures. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING Online surveys. PATIENTS Soccer and volleyball youth club directors. INTERVENTION A survey was completed by directors of youth volleyball and soccer clubs across the country in October 2020. Surveys included self-reported date of re-initiation, number of players, player COVID-19 cases, sources of infection, COVID-19 mitigation strategies, and information sources for the development of COVID-19 mitigation strategies. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Total number of cases reported, number of players, and days since club re-initiation were used to calculate an incidence rate of cases per 100,000 player-days. To compare reported incidence rates between soccer and volleyball, a negative binomial model was developed to predict player cases with sport and state incidence as covariates and log(player-days) as an offset. Estimates were exponentiated to yield a reported incidence rate ratio (IRR) with Wald confidence intervals. RESULTS A total of 205,136 athletes (soccer=165,580; volleyball=39,556) were represented by 437 clubs (soccer=159; volleyball=278). Club organizers reported 673 COVID-19 cases (soccer=322; volleyball=351), for a reported incidence rate of 2.8 cases per 100,000 player-days (soccer=1.7, volleyball=7.9). Volleyball had a significantly higher reported COVID-19 incidence rate compared to soccer (reported IRR = 3.06 [2.0-4.6], p<0.001). Out of 11 possible mitigation strategies, the median number of strategies used by all clubs was 7 with an interquartile range of 2. CONCLUSIONS The incidence of self-reported cases of COVID-19 was lower in soccer clubs than volleyball clubs. Most clubs report using many COVID-19 mitigation strategies to reduce the risk of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin M. Biese
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Wisconsin–Madison
| | - Timothy A. McGuine
- Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison
| | - Kristin Haraldsdottir
- Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison
| | - Leslie Goodavish
- Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison
| | - Andrew M. Watson
- Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison
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18
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Kwon S, Letuchy EM, Levy SM, Janz KF. Youth Sports Participation Is More Important among Females than Males for Predicting Physical Activity in Early Adulthood: Iowa Bone Development Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:1328. [PMID: 33540518 PMCID: PMC7908602 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18031328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
A gender difference in youth sports and physical activity participation is well documented. However, research is limited to understand potential gender difference in the long-term effects of youth sports participation. The study aim was to compare the likelihood of meeting the aerobic Physical Activity Guidelines (PAG) in early adulthood by youth sports participation patterns among females and males. The study sample included 582 Iowa Bone Development Study participants (Iowa, USA). Participation in organized sports was assessed using a physical activity questionnaire 19 times on average between age 6 and 17 years. Accelerometer and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry assessments were conducted at an average age of 23 years. Group-based trajectory analysis was conducted to identify youth sports participation trajectory patterns. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted to examine the association between youth sports participation patterns and meeting the PAG in adulthood. We identified three youth sports participation patterns: "continuous participation," "drop-out," and "no participation." Females in the continuous participation group were more likely to meet the aerobic PAG at age 23 years, compared to females in the no-participation group (OR = 2.63; 95% CI = 1.05, 6.55) or the drop-out group (OR = 2.55; 95% CI = 1.38, 4.69). However, among males, youth sports participation patterns were not significantly associated with meeting the aerobic PAG at age 23 years. In conclusion, this study suggests that youth sports participation could be more important among females than males for predicting physical activity in early adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soyang Kwon
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Elena M. Letuchy
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (E.M.L.); (S.M.L.); (K.F.J.)
| | - Steven M. Levy
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (E.M.L.); (S.M.L.); (K.F.J.)
- Department of Preventive & Community Dentistry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Kathleen F. Janz
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; (E.M.L.); (S.M.L.); (K.F.J.)
- Department of Health and Human Physiology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
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Weber VMR, da Costa JC, Gonçalves HR, Machado VHR, Romanzini M, Ronque ERV. Association between tracking of extracurricular sports practice and weight status during childhood: a prospective cohort study. SAO PAULO MED J 2021; 139:234-240. [PMID: 33909830 PMCID: PMC9625002 DOI: 10.1590/1516-3180.2020.0379.r1.18012021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Overweight and obesity have reached epidemic prevalences. Obesity control involves many factors and needs to begin early in childhood. OBJECTIVES To ascertain the association between tracked extracurricular sports practice and weight status; and to analyze tracking of overweight and obesity among school-aged children. DESIGN AND SETTING Prospective cohort study conducted in 13 public schools in Cianorte, Paraná, in 2012-2016. METHODS The sample comprised 2459 schoolchildren in Cianorte, of mean age 6.3 years at baseline and 9.4 years at follow-up. Body mass index was calculated from body mass and height measurements. The children were grouped as normal weight, overweight or obese. Information on extracurricular sports practice was collected through the dichotomous question "Do you participate in any extracurricular sports?" ("yes" or "no"). RESULTS Tracking of weight status showed that 75.5% maintained this, with kappa of 0.530. Tracking of extracurricular sports practice showed that 80.9% maintained this, with low concordance (kappa of 0.054). Weight status correlation between baseline and follow-up showed that overweight or obese individuals were 4.65 times (CI: 4.05-5.34) more likely to maintain the same classification or move from overweight to obese at follow-up. Correlation of extracurricular sports practice with overweight or obesity at follow-up was not significant. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrated that overweight or obese children were at higher risk of gaining weight than were normal-weight children. In addition, the proportion of these children who maintained extracurricular sports practices over the years was low. Maintenance of this variable was not associated with weight status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinícius Müller Reis Weber
- MSc. Physical Education Professional and Doctoral Student, Laboratory of Physical Activity and Health, Center for Physical Education and Sports, Universidade Estadual de Londrina (UEL), Londrina (PR), Brazil.
| | - Julio Cesar da Costa
- MSc. Physical Education Professional and Doctoral Student, Laboratory of Physical Activity and Health, Center for Physical Education and Sports, Universidade Estadual de Londrina (UEL), Londrina (PR), Brazil.
| | - Hélcio Rossi Gonçalves
- PhD. Physical Education Professional and Adjunct Professor, Sport Department, Center for Physical Education and Sports, Universidade Estadual de Londrina (UEL), Londrina (PR), Brazil.
| | - Vitor Hugo Ramos Machado
- MSc. Physical Education Professional, Doctoral Student and Professor, Department of Physical Education, Universidade Paranaense (UNIPAR), Umuarama (PR), Brazil.
| | - Marcelo Romanzini
- PhD. Physical Education Professional and Adjunct Professor, Laboratory of Physical Activity and Health, Center for Physical Education and Sports, Universidade Estadual de Londrina (UEL), Londrina (PR), Brazil.
| | - Enio Ricardo Vaz Ronque
- PhD. Physical Education Professional and Associate Professor, Laboratory of Physical Activity and Health, Center for Physical Education and Sports, Universidade Estadual de Londrina (UEL), Londrina (PR), Brazil.
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Quarta E, Cohen EJ, Bravi R, Minciacchi D. Future Portrait of the Athletic Brain: Mechanistic Understanding of Human Sport Performance Via Animal Neurophysiology of Motor Behavior. Front Syst Neurosci 2020; 14:596200. [PMID: 33281568 PMCID: PMC7705174 DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2020.596200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Sport performances are often showcases of skilled motor control. Efforts to understand the neural processes subserving such movements may teach us about general principles of behavior, similarly to how studies on neurological patients have guided early work in cognitive neuroscience. While investigations on non-human animal models offer valuable information on the neural dynamics of skilled motor control that is still difficult to obtain from humans, sport sciences have paid relatively little attention to these mechanisms. Similarly, knowledge emerging from the study of sport performance could inspire innovative experiments in animal neurophysiology, but the latter has been only partially applied. Here, we advocate that fostering interactions between these two seemingly distant fields, i.e., animal neurophysiology and sport sciences, may lead to mutual benefits. For instance, recording and manipulating the activity from neurons of behaving animals offer a unique viewpoint on the computations for motor control, with potentially untapped relevance for motor skills development in athletes. To stimulate such transdisciplinary dialog, in the present article, we also discuss steps for the reverse translation of sport sciences findings to animal models and the evaluation of comparability between animal models of a given sport and athletes. In the final section of the article, we envision that some approaches developed for animal neurophysiology could translate to sport sciences anytime soon (e.g., advanced tracking methods) or in the future (e.g., novel brain stimulation techniques) and could be used to monitor and manipulate motor skills, with implications for human performance extending well beyond sport.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Diego Minciacchi
- Physiological Sciences Section, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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