Age profiles of sport participants

Play Well Triple P: Developing and Evaluating a Program to Promote Positive Parental Involvement in Junior Sport

Parents play a central role in children's ongoing participation and enjoyment of sport. Despite compelling evidence that parental behaviour can undermine the quality of children's experiences in sport, little research has examined whether strategies to support parents to engage in positive sports parenting behaviour are effective. In this paper, we report two studies that had the overall aim of developing, implementing and evaluating a program designed to promote positive parental involvement and improve spectator behaviour in junior rugby league in Australia. Study 1 involved the development of a prototype version of the program, named Play Well Triple P, which was qualitatively evaluated through interviews with 19 parents about their satisfaction with the program. In Study 2, we used feedback from Study 1 to refine the program and develop a pilot version, which was then evaluated in a quasi-experimental feasibility study with 101 parents (mean age = 38.42 years; 72% mothers) of junior rugby league players. The pilot version involved one interactive online module and text messages to reinforce content and prompt strategy implementation across the season. Participation in Play Well Triple P was associated with increased positive sports parenting behaviour and reduced controlling and intrusive sports parenting behaviour, with a trend towards reducing over-reactive parenting practices at home. These findings are discussed in relation to the feasibility of implementing a brief and engaging sports parenting intervention in the context of a broader integrated system designed to facilitate ongoing participation of children in sport.

Geographic characteristics of sport- and non-sport-related concussions presenting to emergency departments in the United States

BACKGROUND

Concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that can be sustained through sport-related and non-sport-related (e.g., motor vehicle accidents, falls, assaults) mechanisms of injury (MOI). Variations in concussion incidence and MOI may be present throughout the four geographic regions (Midwest, Northeast, South, West) of the United States. However, there is limited evidence exploring concussion cause and diagnosis patterns based on geographic region and MOI. These factors have implications for better understanding the burden of concussion and necessary efforts that can translate to the mitigation of safety concerns.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to identify patterns of sport-related concussion (SRC) and non-sport-related concussion (NSRC) across the four geographic regions of the United States.

METHODS

A descriptive epidemiology study of patient visits to the emergency department (ED) for concussion between 2010 and 2018, using publicly available data from the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NHAMCS) was conducted. The exposure of interest was geographic region while the main outcome measures were concussion diagnosis and MOI. Descriptive statistics were calculated using population-weighted frequencies and percentages. The association between geographic region and MOI (SRC vs. NSRC) was analyzed using logistic regression models. Odds ratios (OR) presented with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were included. Univariate analyses were conducted followed by multivariable analyses adjusting for sex, age, race/ethnicity, and primary source of payment. Statistical significance was set a priori at p < 0.05 for all analyses.

RESULTS

From 2010 to 2018, 1,161 visits resulted in a concussion diagnosis, representing an estimated 7,111,856 visits nationwide. A greater proportion of concussion diagnoses occurred within EDs in the South (38.2%) followed by the West (25.8%), Midwest (21.4%), and Northeast (14.6%). Compared to the West region, patients visiting the ED in the Midwest (OR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.57-0.98) and Northeast (OR = 0.71, 95% CI = 0.51-0.98) had a lower odds of being diagnosed with a concussion. More patients sustained a NSRC MOI (94.3%) compared to SRC MOI (5.7%). For both mechanisms, the South region had the highest population-weighted frequency of SRC (n = 219,994) and NSRC diagnoses (n = 2,495,753). Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses did not reveal statistically significant associations for geographic region and MOI (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our findings showed that the Midwest and Northeast regions had a lower odds of concussion diagnoses in EDs. Overall, the vast majority of concussions were not sport-related, which has public health implications. These findings improve our understanding of how concussion injuries are being sustained geographically nationwide and help to explain care-seeking patterns for concussion in the ED setting.

What We Do Not Know About Stretching in Healthy Athletes: A Scoping Review with Evidence Gap Map from 300 Trials

BACKGROUND

Stretching has garnered significant attention in sports sciences, resulting in numerous studies. However, there is no comprehensive overview on investigation of stretching in healthy athletes.

OBJECTIVES

To perform a systematic scoping review with an evidence gap map of stretching studies in healthy athletes, identify current gaps in the literature, and provide stakeholders with priorities for future research.

METHODS

Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 and PRISMA-ScR guidelines were followed. We included studies comprising healthy athletes exposed to acute and/or chronic stretching interventions. Six databases were searched (CINAHL, EMBASE, PubMed, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science) until 1 January 2023. The relevant data were narratively synthesized; quantitative data summaries were provided for key data items. An evidence gap map was developed to offer an overview of the existing research and relevant gaps.

RESULTS

Of ~ 220,000 screened records, we included 300 trials involving 7080 athletes [mostly males (~ 65% versus ~ 20% female, and ~ 15% unreported) under 36 years of age; tiers 2 and 3 of the Participant Classification Framework] across 43 sports. Sports requiring extreme range of motion (e.g., gymnastics) were underrepresented. Most trials assessed the acute effects of stretching, with chronic effects being scrutinized in less than 20% of trials. Chronic interventions averaged 7.4 ± 5.1 weeks and never exceeded 6 months. Most trials (~ 85%) implemented stretching within the warm-up, with other application timings (e.g., post-exercise) being under-researched. Most trials examined static active stretching (62.3%), followed by dynamic stretching (38.3%) and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching (12.0%), with scarce research on alternative methods (e.g., ballistic stretching). Comparators were mostly limited to passive controls, with ~ 25% of trials including active controls (e.g., strength training). The lower limbs were primarily targeted by interventions (~ 75%). Reporting of dose was heterogeneous in style (e.g., 10 repetitions versus 10 s for dynamic stretching) and completeness of information (i.e., with disparities in the comprehensiveness of the provided information). Most trials (~ 90%) reported performance-related outcomes (mainly strength/power and range of motion); sport-specific outcomes were collected in less than 15% of trials. Biomechanical, physiological, and neural/psychological outcomes were assessed sparsely and heterogeneously; only five trials investigated injury-related outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

There is room for improvement, with many areas of research on stretching being underexplored and others currently too heterogeneous for reliable comparisons between studies. There is limited representation of elite-level athletes (~ 5% tier 4 and no tier 5) and underpowered sample sizes (≤ 20 participants). Research was biased toward adult male athletes of sports not requiring extreme ranges of motion, and mostly assessed the acute effects of static active stretching and dynamic stretching during the warm-up. Dose-response relationships remain largely underexplored. Outcomes were mostly limited to general performance testing. Injury prevention and other effects of stretching remain poorly investigated. These relevant research gaps should be prioritized by funding policies.

REGISTRATION

OSF project ( https://osf.io/6auyj/ ) and registration ( https://osf.io/gu8ya ).

Youth Sport Participation Trends Across Europe: Implications for Policy and Practice

Purpose: Despite the known health and wellbeing benefits of taking part in sport for children and adolescents, it is reported that sports participation declines during adolescence. The purpose of this study was to explore current organized youth sport participation rates across Europe for both males and females and update current understanding. Method: Sport participation registration data was collected for 18 sports from 27 countries. In total, participation data was collected from over 5 million young people from Under 8s (U8s) to Under 18s (U18s). Differences in the participation rates between age categories were investigated using a generalized linear mixed effects model. Results: Overall, males were four times more likely to participate in organised youth sport than females' participants, with this trend apparent across all age categories and across most sports. There was a significant decrease across sports in participation rates for males during adolescence from U14-U16 and U16-U18. There was a significant decrease in participation rates for females from U14-U16 for most sports except but an increase in participation rates from U16-U18 for 12 out of 18 sports. Soccer (1262%), wrestling (391%) and boxing (209%) were the sports that had greater male sport participation rates. In contrast, dance sports (86%) and volleyball (63%) had more female participants than males. This research shows male sports participation is significantly greater than female in youth sport across Europe. Conclusion: Furthermore, findings showed that for both male and female participants, participation rates increased from U8-U14 for the majority of sports followed by reduced participation rates during adolescence. Findings of this research can be used by national governing bodies and sporting organizations to inform youth sport participation initiatives.

Do differences in sport participation contribute to socioeconomic health inequalities? Evidence from the Lifelines cohort study on all-cause mortality, diabetes and obesity

Little is known about the role of sport participation in socioeconomic health inequalities. We studied the association between different aspects of sport participation with all-cause mortality, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity, including inequalities between socioeconomic subpopulations. Using the Dutch Lifelines cohort study (n = 84,230), we assessed the associations of sport participation, as well as the amount, intensity, type and number of sports, with all-cause mortality, T2DM and obesity in individuals. We studied the effect of sport participation on health outcomes within and between educational categories. Outcomes were compared with moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA). Sport participation was significantly associated with lower mortality (HR = 0.81), T2DM (HR = 0.70), and obesity (HR = 0.77). No significant additional effects of the amount or intensity of sport participation were found, while participating in teams sport was associated with significantly lower mortality (HR = 0.53) compared with other types of sport. These effects were similar among educational categories. Sport participation explained between 11% (T2DM and obesity) and 22% (mortality) of health inequalities between educational categories. This was more than twice the effect size of MVPA. The sensitivity analysis with net income as the socioeconomic indicator showed similar results. Our results suggest that to reduce socioeconomic differences in health, public health policies should focus on increasing sport participation in groups with a low socioeconomic status, rather than increasing the amount or intensity of sport participation, or MVPA in general.

The characteristics of organized sport and physical activity initiatives for older adults in Sweden

There is a common understanding that sport and physical activity can be important to address healthy aging. There are individual-level recommendations about how much physical activity people of different ages should engage in to gain health benefits, but at the same time there are no recommendations for how organizations should organize physical activities to suit as many people as possible for as long as possible. The purpose of this study was to explore the characteristics of sport and physical activity initiatives that older adults participate in. Different ongoing sport and physical activity initiatives that involve older adults were investigated regarding their focus, organization, intensity and organizer, and in relation to their costs, booking opportunities and recruitment. The study was conducted with a cross-sectional design using the Salutogenic Physical Activity Health Resources Questionnaire (SPAHRQ). The study included 27 different initiatives with 372 participants (60% women) ranging from 60 to 96 years of age. A health-promoting, salutogenic settings-based approach, and specifically the concepts drop-in, drop-through and drop-over were used in discussing recommendations for the organization of sport and physical activity for older adults. The main findings were that who organizes the sport and physical activity initiative seems to affect the characteristics of how it is organized and what characterizes the participants in it. Despite the differing characters of sport and physical activity initiatives, the majority of older adults are recruited by internal contacts like friends and family. Which older adults participate in which initiatives is explained mostly by the age and gender of the participants. In conclusion, to attract as many older adults as possible, organizations should work with lowering the thresholds, as well as within and between, organizations, and raise the threshold for dropping out of sports and physical activity.

Sport bodies: An examination of positive body image, sport-confidence, and subjective sport performance in Jamaican athletes

Guided by the Sport-Confidence Model, this study examined the associations among a positive body image, sport-confidence, and sport performance evaluations. Using a cross-sectional design, a purposive sample of 314 Jamaican athletes (male = 70.7%; Mage = 22.85; SD = 4.89) completed measures of body and functionality appreciation, sport-confidence, and subjective sport performance. Results from path analysis provided evidence for good model-data fit. Body (B = 9.03, p < .001) and functionality (B = 4.93, p = .036) appreciation exerted direct effects on sport-confidence. Sport-confidence exerted a direct effect on sport performance evaluations (B = 0.09, p < .001). Body (B = 0.79, CI95% [0.44, 1.17]) and functionality (B = 0.43, CI95% [0.05, 0.92]) appreciation exerted indirect effects on sport performance evaluations through sport-confidence. Results indicate that supporting the development of a positive body image in athletes may contribute to feelings of sport-confidence and positive performance outcomes.

Trends and determinants of organised sports participation in immigrant and Australian children: A nine-year follow-up

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to examine trends and determinants of organised sports participation among children of immigrant parents from low-and-middle-income countries, high-income countries, and Australian children.

DESIGN

Longitudinal (nine-year follow-up).

METHODS

Data were from the birth-cohort of Australian Children aged 6-15 years with follow-up between 2010 and 2018. Organised sports participation was measured using two items about regular participation in team and individual sports. Multilevel logit modelling was used to assess the determinants of organised sports participation across groups.

RESULTS

Both team sports participation and individual sports participation increased between 6 and 11 years and declined between 11 and 15 years across the three groups. Children of immigrant parents from low-and-middle-income countries (OR 0.65; 95 % CI 0.57-0.74) and high-income countries (OR 0.82; 95 % CI 0.76-0.89) had lower odds of team sports participation than Australian children. Children of immigrant parents from low-and-middle-income countries had lower odds of team sports participation (OR 0.79; 95 % CI 0.69-0.90) than children of immigrant parents from high-income countries. Female children, high screen time, high psychological difficulties, increased number of siblings and low socio-economic position were identified as determinants of lower team and individual sports participation.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study identified evidence of disparities in organised sports participation among children of immigrant parents and Australian children. Multilevel and multicomponent interventions to promote children's organised sports participation should be prioritised, with a focus on children of the female sex, older children, children with lower socioeconomic status, and children with higher screen time and higher psychological difficulties.

Association between sports participation and overall health in children and adolescents

Emerging evidence revealed that participating in sports may have benefits for health, but the association between sports participation and self-rated overall health has not been clearly established in children and adolescents. The present study aimed to examine the cross-sectional relationships between sports participation and self-rated overall health. A national sample of 42,777 (mean age = 9.4 ± 5.2, 48.3% girls) United States children and adolescents completed self-administered questionnaires and were included in the final analysis. The crude and adjusted odds ratio (ORs) and 95% CI were used to analyze the association between sports participation and self-rated overall health. Results indicated that children and adolescents participated in sports were more likely to report better overall health (OR = 1.92, 95%CI: 1.83, 2.02) compared to those not participating in sports. This study found that sport participation was positively associated with self-rated overall health in children and adolescents. This study offers evidence concerning adolescents' health literacy promotion.

The Influence of Adolescent Sport Participation on Body Mass Index Tracking and the Association between Body Mass Index and Self-Esteem over a Three-Year Period

This study aimed to (1) investigate gender-specific characteristics associated with low sport participation among UK adolescents, and (2) assess gender-specific BMI tracking, and gender-specific associations between BMI and self-esteem based on different levels of adolescent sport participation. Participants were 9046 (4523 female) UK adolescents. At 11- and 14 years self-esteem was self-reported and BMI was calculated from objectively measured height and weight. At 11- years sport participation was parent-reported. Gender-specific sport participation quartile cut-off values categorised boys and girls separately into four graded groups. Gender-specific χ² and independent samples t tests assessed differences in measured variables between the lowest (Q1) and highest (Q4) sport participation quartiles. Adjusted linear regression analyses examined BMI tracking and associations between BMI and self-esteem scores. Gender-specific analyses were conducted separately for sport participation quartiles. Compared to Q4 boys and girls, Q1 boys and girls were more likely to be non-White, low family income, have overweight/obesity at 11 years and report lower self-esteem at 11 years and 14 years. BMI at 11 years was positively associated with BMI at 14 years for boys and girls across sport participation quartiles. BMI at 11 years was inversely associated with self-esteem scores at 11 years for Q1 and Q2 boys, and Q1 and Q4 girls. BMI at 11 years was inversely associated with self-esteem scores at 14 years for Q1, Q3 and Q4 boys, and Q1, Q2, Q3 and Q4 girls. Gender and sport participation influence BMI tracking and the BMI and self-esteem association among adolescents.

Association between Physical Fitness, Physical Activity Level and Sense of Coherence in Swedish Adolescents; An Analysis of Age and Sex Differences

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between physical fitness, physical activity, and sense of coherence (SOC) in Swedish adolescents (n = 2028 males, n = 1287 females) aged 14 to 18 using a cross-sectional design.

METHODS

Using the Swedish Physical power Mental harmony and Social capacity (FMS) student profile, participants performed physical tests measuring their cardiovascular ability (CV) and muscular strength. Questionnaires were used to measure physical activity levels (PA), the participation in organized physical training, sedentary behavior (SB), screen time, and SOC value. Multiple linear regression analyses were used to analyze the association between SOC and independent variables.

RESULTS

The regression analyses explained a small, shared variance between SOC and the independent variables in boys (4.3%) and girls (3.3%). SB showed a positive association with SOC both in girls (β = 0.114, p = 0.002) and boys (β = 0.109, p = 0.013). Abdominal strength was positively associated, while VO₂max was inversely associated, with SOC (β = 0.113, p = 0.022; β = -0.109, p = 0.026, respectively) in boys. Girls had poorer fitness than boys did across all age groups except at age 18. PA levels decreased from age 14 to 18 in girls and boys, but without differences between sexes. Abdominal strength decreased from age 14 to 18 in girls and boys. In general, girls had lower SOC than boys across all age groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Poor sedentary behavior was significantly associated with weaker SOC for both genders, indicating overall physical activity as the most important factor for stronger SOC. However, emotional support in vulnerable environments may have a bigger impact than physical activity or sedentary behavior on the SOC value for adolescents.

Health challenges and acute sports injuries restrict weightlifting training of older athletes

Objectives

To quantify acute injuries sustained during weightlifting that result in training restrictions and identify potential risk factors or preventative factors in Master athletes and to evaluate potentially complex interactions of age, sex, health-related and training-related predictors of injuries with machine learning (ML) algorithms.

Methods

A total of 976 Masters weightlifters from Australia, Canada, Europe and the USA, ages 35–88 (51.1% women), completed an online survey that included questions on weightlifting injuries, chronic diseases, sport history and training practices. Ensembles of ML algorithms were used to identify factors associated with acute weightlifting injuries and performance of the prediction models was evaluated. In addition, a subgroup of variables selected by six experts were entered into a logistic regression model to estimate the likelihood of an injury.

Results

The accuracy of ML models predicting injuries ranged from 0.727 to 0.876 for back, hips, knees and wrists, but were less accurate (0.644) for shoulder injuries. Male Master athletes had a higher prevalence of weightlifting injuries than female Master athletes, ranging from 12% to 42%. Chronic inflammation or osteoarthritis were common among both men and women. This was associated with an increase in acute injuries.

Conclusions

Training-specific variables, such as choices of training programmes or nutrition programmes, may aid in preventing acute injuries. ML models can identify potential risk factors or preventative measures for sport injuries.

Participation and dropout of Hockey New South Wales participants in 2017 and 2018: a longitudinal study

Background

Sports have a focus on increasing participation, which contributes to increasing population levels of physical activity, social cohesion and longevity of the sport. The primary aim of this study was to examine reasons for drop-out of a popular team sport in Australia, Field Hockey and identify opportunities to increase participation.

Methods

This longitudinal study obtained routinely collected registered player data from Hockey New South Wales over two consecutive years, and survey data from registered players who dropped out. Logistic regression models identified demographic subgroups who were more likely to drop out of sport, and the reasons for dropping out.

Results

In 2018, 8463 (31%) of hockey players did not return to play hockey after the previous season and 805 (10%) of these completed a survey. Specific groups who were more likely to stop playing included 5–6 years (OR: 2.1, 95% CI 1.8–2.6; reference: 12–17 years), females (OR: 1.1, 95% CI 1.0–1.2; reference: males), Indigenous (OR: 1.2, 95% CI 1.1–1.4; reference: non-Indigenous), most disadvantaged (OR: 1.1, 95% CI 1.0–1.2; reference: least disadvantaged) or regional and remote (1.1, 95% CI 1.0–1.2; reference: major cities). Top reasons for drop out were medical/age (17%), change in circumstances (16%) and high cost (13%), lack of time (13%) and lack of enjoyment (7%).

Conclusions

Although Hockey successfully reaches a large proportion of underrepresented groups in sport, these groups are more likely to drop out. Sports should consult these groups to develop enjoyable, flexible, and modifiable versions of the game that are appropriate to their needs.

Profiles of Physical Fitness and Fitness Enjoyment Among Children: Associations With Sports Participation

Purpose: The present study examined whether groups of children with different physical fitness and fitness enjoyment profiles could be identified and, if so, whether the different groups varied from one another in terms of organized sports participation. Method: Five hundred and fifty-eight 8-11-year-olds (56.99% boys) participated in this cross-sectional study. Physical fitness and fitness enjoyment were assessed with seven items from a standardized test battery and a pictorial scale containing pictures referring to the enjoyment in those seven physical fitness tests, respectively. To examine whether groups with different fitness and enjoyment profiles could be identified, we conducted cluster analyses based on children's standardized physical fitness and fitness enjoyment scores. A two-way ANCOVA (sex*cluster) was conducted to investigate differences in weekly organized sports participation among each of the identified groups while controlling for age. Results: Cluster analyses revealed two groups with aligned levels of physical fitness and fitness enjoyment (i.e., relatively low-low and relatively high-high) and two groups with unaligned levels (i.e., relatively low-moderate and relatively high-moderate), respectively. Both groups with relatively high fitness scores were found to spend significantly more time in organized sports (M = 2.01 h and 2.29 h, respectively) than the two groups with relatively low fitness scores (M = 1.08 h and 0.98 h, respectively), irrespective of their enjoyment levels. Conclusion: Increasing physical fitness levels (especially among those children with suboptimal enjoyment levels) may lead to increased organized sports participation, while increased organized sports participation in its turn may lead to higher fitness levels. As such, participation in sports programs should be promoted in children of all age groups.

Marketing Up the Wrong Tree? Organisational Perspectives on Attracting and/or Retaining Older Adults in Sport

Community sport is seen as a suitable setting for physical activity for different population groups. Older adults (aged 50+ years) are a rapidly growing population group. Physical activity is critical for healthy ageing, however sport participation rates for older adults are very low. The aim of this study was to investigate how sporting organisations perceive sport for older adults. This cross-sectional study surveyed 171 representatives from Australian National and State Sporting Organisations. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise the results and the three sporting organisation categories' (high, medium, and low participation) responses were compared using non-parametric statistics. Contextualised in the perspective of organisational change, a framework for marketing to the ageing consumer was used to interpret the results. Older adults are not a high priority group for most sporting organisations, however the benefits of engaging older adults were recognised, particularly in context of increasing participation numbers. A lack of age-appropriate programmes was perceived to be a major barrier of engaging older adults. This lack of programmes stems from older adults being deemed as a less attractive segment than other age groups for sporting organisations. Modifications that sports felt they could make to attract and/or retain older adults included specific marketing and age appropriate opportunities. There was widespread consensus across sporting organisations, suggesting that perceptions of older adult sport participation were comparable across the sector, such as increasing participation numbers and engaging their older fan base. In the context of attracting, and retaining, older adults in sport clubs, it was concluded that most sporting organisations are not (yet) ready to build “age friendly” sporting environments. There is very limited literature on the organisational perspective of older adults and sport, meaning this study is unique in the field. Although sport policy encourages organisations to grow their participation, most organisations do not actively and strategically engage older adults. This research provides an understanding of why this untapped market is not a priority target and provides comprehensive insights for policy makers to better engage with this population group.

Comparison of fitness levels between elementary school children with autism spectrum disorder and age-matched neurotypically developing children

Low physical fitness is associated with reduced physical activity and increased cardiovascular diseases. To date, limited research has compared physical fitness levels between children with and without autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Therefore, the primary aim was to investigate if differences in fitness levels exist between children with ASD and age-matched neurotypically developing children (ND). The second aim was to examine if age, sex, height and weight could be used to predict potential fitness levels. The third aim was to examine if the developmental trajectory of fitness is comparable between children with ASD and ND children. The modified Eurofit test battery was used to compare fitness levels between 244 children aged 4-13 years old (n = 152 ND and n = 92 ASD). Independent samples t tests and regression analyses were used to investigate differences in fitness levels between the two groups. The results indicated that statistically significant differences exist in fitness levels between children with ASD when compared to ND children across all ages, favoring the ND children, with small to large effect sizes noted (p < 0.05, d = 0.36-1.13). Regression analysis could not accurately predict fitness measurements in children with ASD but could for ND children. The developmental trajectories were significantly delayed on the 20 m sprint and standing broad jump for children with ASD when compared to ND children. Future studies should seek to address the disparities in physical fitness experienced by children with ASD by using relevant neuromuscular interventions.

Linking sports registration information and player feedback to enhance netball participation

BACKGROUND

Sports should endeavour to provide inclusive opportunities for all people to participate. More evidence is required to understand who joins sports clubs and what keeps participants engaged throughout their lifetime. Little is known about who plays netball or what drives participation and retention of players in netball. This study aimed to identify the sociodemographic characteristics of Netball New South Wales (NSW) members, their odds of re-registering in the sport, and explore their motivations to play, experiences during participation and the perceived benefits of playing netball.

METHODS

We used longitudinal sport registration data from all Netball NSW members in 2018 and 2019. A cross-sectional online survey was sent to all players registered during the two-year study period (n = 157,152). We used logistic regression to determine the odds of individuals returning to netball in 2019 after playing in 2018 and linked the sports registration data with the survey responses, calculating frequencies and proportions.

RESULTS

Netball NSW members were mostly female (98 %) and aged less than 18 years old (69 %). Netball NSW retained 68 % of members in 2019 who played the previous year. Members who were male, aged 18-44 years old, lived in low SES areas, lived in regional/remote locations, identified as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, spoke a language other than English at home or were born outside Australia had lower odds of returning to play from 2018 to 2019. Survey participants (n = 10,795) rated their experience playing netball highly and reported that playing netball improved their health and wellbeing. The main reason to play netball reported was 'fun and enjoyment' while the main reason to consider quitting was the 'skill/experience of umpires and officials'.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the strengths of netball in engaging and retaining females, who often participate in less sport than males. The positive experiences reported by netball participants should be fostered to retain current participants throughout the lifecourse. The data provided by members should be inform strategic actions to enhance netball participation for sociodemographic groups who had greatest odds of dropout. Routine surveillance using linked registration and player feedback should be utilised by sports to enhance sport delivery and increase participation.

Body mass Index of children and adolescent participants in a voucher program designed to incentivise participation in sport and physical activity: A cross-sectional study

There has been limited population-level success in tackling overweight and obesity. The Active Kids program is a universal intervention that aims to increase participation in structured physical activity and sport among children and adolescents in New South Wales (NSW), Australia. This study examined the prevalence of overweight and obesity across subgroups and by social disadvantage in this large broadly representative sample. A cross-sectional study was conducted including all children (n = 671,375) who registered for an Active Kids Program voucher in 2018. The child's height and weight were obtained from an online registration form. Among children and adolescents who registered in the Active Kids Program, the prevalence of overweight and obesity was 17.2% and 7.6%, respectively. A large number of children and adolescents who lived in the most disadvantaged areas (n = 99,583; 14.8%) registered for the program. There was a clear socio-economic gradient for obesity prevalence across areas of increasing disadvantage, with children and adolescents living in the most disadvantaged area being 1.87 (95% CIs 1.82, 1.93) times more likely to be overweight or obese. The Active Kids program successfully reached a substantial proportion of children who are overweight and obese from socio-economically disadvantaged areas, providing financial support and opportunities for these children to participate in structured sport and physical activity. However, the program did not reach all children, and additional physical activity promotion strategies may be needed in a comprehensive approach. Nonetheless, these findings support government investment in reaching children who are overweight or obese with large-scale programs.

The Physical Activity and Sport Participation Framework-A Policy Model Toward Being Physically Active Across the Lifespan

The changing social and policy context in which sport is produced, delivered, and consumed is considered as a foundation for proposing a new integrated framework that incorporates participation in sport with participation in leisure-time physical activity (PA) more broadly. In order to position sport in the broader context of leisure-time PA, the concept of physical literacy is reviewed and integrated into the theoretical foundations of a new lifespan framework. It is argued that historically, sport policy largely focused on competitive club-based sport and elite performance and that in line with this, talent development pathway models were developed and implemented. However, with increasing physical inactivity globally, these models do not apply to the general population. This is why we propose a population-based "whole of sport ecosystem" lifespan model-the Physical Activity and Sport Participation (PASP) framework. We conclude that this framework may serve as a holistic policy and implementation guide for all in the sport ecosystem. This includes governmental PA and sport policy makers, sport governing bodies and clubs, and the ever-increasing range of private PA and sport providers and also health agencies. In recognition of the changing patterns of participation in PA and sport across the lifespan, the PASP framework can contribute to coordinated and integrated PA and sport policy development, which, in turn, can lead to strategies that tackle the global physical inactivity crisis.

How is sport participation related to mortality, diabetes and prediabetes for different body mass index levels?

This study examined the association of sport participation with health outcomes and whether this relation differs between body mass index (BMI)‐level subpopulations. Research outcomes for sport participation were compared with other types of leisure‐time physical activity (PA). We used the Cox proportional hazards regression models to assess the associations of sport participation, and four other PA types (cycling, gardening, doing odd jobs, and walking), with the risk of prediabetes, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and all‐cause mortality in 97,212 individuals (58.4% women; mean age: 46.5 years) in the Dutch LifeLines cohort. Outcomes were stratified by three BMI levels: healthy weight (BMI: 18.5‐24.9 kg/m²), overweight (BMI: 25.0‐29.9 kg/m²), and obesity (BMI: 30.0 kg/m² or above). Sport participation was associated with lower health risks, but only significantly so for prediabetes (HR = 0.86, 95% CI: 0.81‐0.92). For healthy weight persons, sport participation was associated with the largest risk reductions, with significantly lower risks of prediabetes (HR = 0.78, 95% CI: 0.68‐0.90) and all‐cause mortality (HR = 0.79, 95% CI 0.65‐0.96). Other PA types were not associated with significantly lower health risks, with the exception of cycling, for which significantly lower health risks for persons with overweight were found. Our findings show that sport participation is associated with lower health risks, especially prediabetes, but the effect varies between BMI levels, with the strongest link for persons with a healthy weight. Sport participation, together with cycling, is likely to be more effective in reducing health risks than other types of PA.

Experiences of Older Adults Preparing for Their First Triathlon: "A Qualitative Study of the Participation in an Endurance Training Intervention."

Purpose: The overall aim of the present study was to explore the experiences of older adult exercisers participating in an individualized training program lasting 3 months preparing for completing a triathlon competition.

Methods: Fourteen older Norwegian adults (median age (interquartile range, IQR) for males (N=10) and females (N=4) were 70.0 (65.0-75.5) and 57.5 (56.3-62.5) years, respectively) participated in 3-month individualized training program comprising three weekly sessions of running, cycling, and swimming. Both field- and laboratory-based testing were conducted. The participants attended two sports nutrition and competitive psychology seminars focusing on triathlon competition. The participants were interviewed in depth in three different focus groups. Thematic analysis was utilized to analyze the findings.

Results: Participants improved their performance in all field-based tests. After completion of the thematic data analysis the main finding and overarching theme of well-being and being fit emerged. Additionally, three main themes were identified: 1) motivation; 2) progress and coping; and 3) breaking barriers.

Conclusion: Psychological well-being and satisfaction of being fit seem to be vital to participate in a triathlon competition. Promoting specific age-appropriate participation in sports activities can be an effective strategy for promoting a healthy lifestyle among the elderly.

Hand injuries in sports - a retrospective analysis of 364 cases

BACKGROUND

Hand injuries are common in sports and associated with high dropout rates and costs. Hence, efforts should strive for further risk prevention measures in order to increase safety in sports. This implies knowledge of sports injury risk profiles. So far, major surveillance programs exist mainly in Anglo-American countries, reflecting the specific concerns of sports in this part of the world. Data on sports injuries within Europe are scarce. As sports behaviour appears to vary demographically, we hypothesised that risk injury profiles differ as well.

METHODS

To assess whether the described sports injuries of the hand are applicable to the German population, we performed a five-year retrospective, single-centre analysis of sports-related hand injuries, using data from the Enterprise Clinical Research Data Warehouse of the Hannover Medical School.

RESULTS

Notable differences in comparison to other data were observed. Ball sports, cycling and equestrian sports caused most of the recorded hand injuries, which were predominantly fractures of the wrist and hand. Hand injuries in equestrian sports were associated with significantly higher operation and hospitalisation rates as well as a significantly longer inpatient treatment.

CONCLUSION

Risk profiles for sports-related hand injuries appear to differ not only in terms of age- and sex, but also geographically. Nation- and Europe-wide hand trauma registries as well as a broad registry participation are necessary in order to accurately assess the risk patterns in Europe; henceforth reducing hand injuries and their sequelae.

The Masters athlete in Olympic weightlifting: Training, lifestyle, health challenges, and gender differences

BACKGROUND

Olympic weightlifting requires strength, speed, and explosive power. Vigorous physical activity such as Olympic weightlifting, for older adults has many benefits from improved strength, social interactions, and a healthy and independent lifestyle. Little is known about the training habits, health, and lifestyle of Masters weightlifters that includes top level athletes as well as beginners, and there is a dearth of data on women.

OBJECTIVES

The primary aim was to describe demographics, training habits, and health including prevalence of injury and chronic disease in male and female Masters athletes in Olympic weightlifting. The secondary aim was to study gender differences and the age and impact of menopause on participation in the sport.

RESULTS

The 958 participants (46% men), ages 34 to 87, mostly train 3 to 4 days per week in 1 to 2 hour sessions. This is a highly educated and affluent group, 84% are white, 72% are married, 85% are post-secondary graduates. Exercise can also increase the risk of injury compared to less active older adults, but the rates of injury in weightlifting affecting training are lower than seen in other sports. The prevalence of depression and mental health is similar to a general population. Stress levels and sleep disturbances are more common among women than men. Women reach menopause at a similar age as women in industrialized countries, but menopausal symptoms constrained the training.

CONCLUSION

Older athletes are capable of rigorous training programs and top performances while adjusting to changes due to biological aging. Weightlifting athletes, coaches, and health professionals must be aware of patterns of injuries and gender differences to incorporate successful prevention strategies. Knowledge of presentations of menopause and impact of menopausal symptoms on training allows women and health care providers to make informed treatment decisions.

Sport participation settings: where and 'how' do Australians play sport?

Background

Leisure-time physical activity and sport participation trends are often reported, both in aggregate and by specific activity. Recently there has been a rise in overall leisure-time physical activity, but little change in the prevalence of organised sport. It is important that the development of sport policy, infrastructure and strategic developments meet the changing landscape of participation. However, there has been relatively little research into the settings in which people participate. The aim of this study is to investigate the settings of participation of children and adults in 12 major Australian sports.

Methods

This study utilised data about participation in sport and recreational physical activity collected in the AusPlay survey from a representative sample of adults and children in the Australian state of Victoria. For each type of physical activity, the settings of participation are identified. Respondents can report participation in a particular activity in more than one setting. Therefore we use the term “instance of participation” to refer to a person playing a particular sport in a particular setting. Participation and settings across 12 major sports were investigated for children and adults.

Results

For children, the most popular sport was swimming with a weighted estimate of 323,565 (30.3%) instances of participation in the Victorian population, followed by Australian football (n = 180,459; 16.9%), and basketball (n = 137,169; 12.9%). For adults the most popular sports were swimming (n = 703,950; 30.9%) followed by golf (n = 274,729; 12.1%), and tennis (n = 260,814; 11.4%). There were considerable differences between the profiles of settings of participation for the 12 sports. Across the 12 sports, the majority of participation by children took place within a sports club or association setting, representing 63% of all instances of sport participation. For adults, sports clubs and associations was also the most popular setting, but it represented only 37% of instances of participation.

Conclusions

Traditionally, community clubs and inter-club competitions provided the main setting for sport participation, but this is no longer the case, particularly for adults. If the community sport sector is to continue to flourish, it must consider new strategies and participation options more attractive to other segments of its potential market.

Sports Participation and Health Care Costs in Older Adults Aged 50 Years or Older

The objective of the study was to analyze the relationship between sports participation and health care costs in older adults. The sample was composed of 556 participants (145 men and 411 women) who were followed from 2010 to 2014. The engagement in sports considered three different components (intensity, volume, and previous time). Health care costs were assessed annually through medical records. Structural equation modeling (longitudinal relationship between sport and costs) and analysis of variance for repeated measures (comparisons over time) were used. Health care costs increased significantly from 2010 to 2014 (analysis of variance; p value = .001). Higher baseline scores for intensity were related to lower health care costs (r = -.223, 95% confidence interval [-.404, -.042]). Similar results were found to volume (r = -.216, 95% confidence interval [-.396, -.036]) and time of engagement (r = -.218, 95% confidence interval [-.402, -.034]). In conclusion, higher sports participation is related to lower health care costs in older adults.

Youth sports participation and health status in early adulthood: A 12-year follow-up

Examining association between serial participation in youth organized sports (OS) and concurrent cardiometabolic risk factors, with long-term health status, will aid understanding the role of OS participation. Combining data from a prospective study and a follow-up survey, we aimed to determine association between youth OS participation and cardiometabolic risk factors with health and physical activity (PA) in young adulthood. Cardiometabolic risk factors were monitored yearly, and OS involvement through middle school, high school, and college, together with current status was recorded 12 years after the initial study began; 462 participants completed follow-up. Cardiometabolic risk factors included: body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, blood pressure, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and triglycerides, fasting glucose and insulin. Participants continuing OS participation from middle to high school and/or college had significantly lower BMI/BMI z-scores [24.7 vs 27.4 (p < 0.05) and 0.51 vs 0.82 (p < 0.05), respectively] and significantly higher HDL [48.7 vs 45.4 (p ≤ 0.05)] than those without OS participation after middle school. Waist circumference of females was significantly smaller in those who participated in OS from middle to high school and/or college (84.9 cm) compared to those who had no OS (92.1 cm), (p < 0.05). Participants continuing OS from middle to high school and/or college reported significantly higher follow-up PA levels than those who had no OS after middle school (p < 0.001). This study provides novel data showing serial participation in OS from middle to high school and/or college was associated with a superior cardiometabolic health profile in school and increased PA levels at 12-year follow-up.

Longitudinal Trends in Sport Participation and Retention of Women and Girls

Measurement and analysis of sport participation data is vital to understand trends, and therefore to make informed decisions relating to sport policy and strategies to get more people active through sport. This study identified patterns of club sport participation, retention and drop-out of women and girls over a 7 year period in a popular team sport in Australia. The study included registered women and girls of all ages (4–96 years at baseline) in an almost exclusively female sport, with a particular focus on the ages 4–14 years where most participation occurs. All commencing participants in the base year (2010) were tracked over the 7 year period. Participants were classified in two ways: the total number of years they played and their overall pattern of participation. Differences between age groups were analyzed using Kruskall Wallis and Mann Whitney tests. Registration records of 29,225 participants were analyzed in the study. Overall, there were considerable differences in the years participating in the sport. Almost one third (30%) of commencing 4–9 year olds played continuously for the 7 years. This proportion diminished through ages at commencement from 10 to 19, reaching a low point of 4% for ages 15–19, then rebounded slightly, reaching 7% for ages 30+. The proportion who dropped out during the 7 year period and did not return varied with age in the converse manner, as did the proportion of single-year players. The optimal age of entry to sport for retention in participation was 6–9 years. Consideration needs to be given to the age appropriateness of sports programs for very young participants. Strategies specifically relating to retention of girls and young women during adolescence should be developed.

Parental awareness and engagement in the Active Kids program across socioeconomic groups

OBJECTIVES

In 2018, the New South Wales (NSW) Government implemented a State-wide program to reduce the cost barrier to organised sport and physical activity participation. We explored parent/carer's awareness and children's engagement in the Active Kids program across socioeconomic groups and used the NSW Population Health Survey (PHS) to validate engagement in the program.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional.

METHODS

Data were obtained from the 2018 NSW PHS and the Active Kids program registration database. We compared demographic characteristics of children who had registered for the program in the registration database with children in the weighted NSW PHS. Multinomial regression models were used to determine whether socioeconomic status was associated with parent/carer awareness and children's engagement in the program.

RESULTS

Parent/carer's in the most disadvantaged quartile were twice as likely to have never heard of the Active Kids program (OR: 2.04, 95% CIs 1.31, 3.16) or to have heard or the program but not registered (OR: 1.94, 95% CIs 1.26, 3.00), and more than twice as likely to have registered for a voucher, but not followed through and redeemed the voucher (OR: 2.68, 95% CIs 1.27, 5.63) compared with the least disadvantaged quartile.

CONCLUSIONS

The Active Kids program has provided financial support for organised sport and physical activity to a large number of children. However, there are still a substantial proportion of socially disadvantaged groups who are unaware or have not engaged in the program. Further targeted work is required to increase the awareness and engagement in the program for socially disadvantaged groups.

"You Can Sit in the Middle or Be One of the Outliers": Older Male Athletes and the Complexities of Social Comparison

Sporting events for older adults are proliferating in both popularity and participation numbers, mirroring the growth that is occurring globally with an aging population. Preliminary evidence indicates that older athletes have a tendency to compare themselves (in terms of their performance, participation, and aging) to inactive older adults deemed “worse-off.” Our aim was to examine the stories and experiences of older, male Masters athletes, not only in terms of their own lives and in relation to others but also in the broader context of current (neoliberal) policies that promote sport across the lifespan. We use social comparison theory to interpret our findings and highlight the strengths and limitations of social comparison as a psychological strategy. For this study, 17 male competitive athletes (age range from 70 to 90 years) who participated in either the 2013 or 2017 World Masters Games were interviewed as part of a larger project on the meaning of sport in their lives. Seven different sports were represented, and participants hailed from multiple countries. Within the interpretive paradigm, we used qualitative methods to interview each participant, analyze individual transcripts, and develop common themes across the data set to address the aforementioned aims. Our two major themes were, Sport as social comparison:“It’s the competitive nature” and Downward comparisons. A number of participants commented on the nature of sport, and competitive sport in particular, as being important to their motivation to train and prepare. Within the theme of Downward comparisons, we established two categories: Resisting loss and Assigning blame. While downward comparisons were used by our participants to separate themselves from other seniors of the same age, thereby bolstering their sense of self, participants also tied those comparisons to neoliberal notions of individual and moral responsibility for health. Participants believed that compromised health was due to individual negligence and bad decisions, with little reference to uncontrollable factors, such as non-modifiable risk factors for disease, disability, and/or socioeconomic status, which could be affecting people’s lives or decisions. Ultimately, our findings show that the useful psychological strategy of social comparison for maintaining a positive sense of self and performance may also have some negative individual and societal consequences.

Years Participating in Sports During Childhood Predicts Mental Health in Adolescence: A 5-Year Longitudinal Study

PURPOSE

Sport participation promotes mental health and prevents mental illness. However, the association between specific sport profiles and mental health has not been examined. We investigate the longitudinal association between number of years with a recreational or performance sport profile and mental health during adolescence and whether these associations differ by sex.

METHODS

Participants (n = 318, 58.2% female) reported participation in sport every 4 months over 5 years, from ages 10-11 to 14-15 years. Each year, they were categorized as recreational or performance sport participants or as nonparticipants. Mental health was assessed at age 15-16 years. Multivariate linear regression was used to model the association between number of years (0-5) with a recreational and performance sport profile and mental health, controlling for sex, age, income, and age at puberty.

RESULTS

A recreational sport profile for ≥2 years was associated with better mental health compared with 0 years of recreational sport participation; the strongest association was observed for a recreational sport profile of 4-5 years (βˆ [95% confidence interval]: 10.29 [2.60, 17.98]). A performance sport profile for ≥1 year was associated with better mental health in late adolescence compared with 0 years of performance sport participation; the strongest association was observed for a performance sport profile of 4-5 years (βˆ [95% confidence interval]: 19.48 [9.50, 29.46]). No differences by sex were observed.

CONCLUSION

Both recreational and performance sport profiles in childhood and early adolescence are positively associated with mental health in late adolescence. To promote mental health, strategies to encourage youth to engage and remain involved in sport are warranted.

Organized Sport Participation From Childhood to Adolescence Is Associated With Bone Mass in Young Adults From the Raine Study

There is a critical need for longitudinal cohort studies to consider the association of the cumulative exposure of physical activity during childhood and adolescence and bone mass. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between organized sports trajectories (that capture distinct and potentially meaningful patterns over critical developmental periods) and bone mass at age 20 years. Participation in organized sport was recorded by parental report at ages 5, 8, 10, 14, and 17 years in 984 offspring (48% female) of a pregnancy cohort (Raine Study). Latent class analysis identified three trajectory classes in each sex. In females, these were "consistent sport participators" (48%), "dropouts" (34%), and "non-participators" (18%); in males, "consistent sport participators" (55%), "dropouts" (37%), and "sport joiners" (8%). Whole-body bone mineral content (BMC) at age 20 years was assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). At age 20 years, after adjustment for covariates measured at age 20 years, including height, lean mass, physical activity, calcium intake, serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D, alcohol, and smoking, males who were "consistent sport participators" had significantly greater whole-body and leg BMC than those who dropped out of sport (p < 0.001), whereas males who joined sports had significantly greater leg BMC than those who dropped out of sport (p = 0.002). Females in the "consistent sport participator" trajectory had significantly greater leg BMC than those who dropped out (all p = 0.004). Participation in organized sport during childhood and adolescence is associated with bone mass at age 20 years. Because attainment of optimal peak bone mass in young adulthood is protective against osteoporosis in later life, this may have long-term skeletal benefits. © 2018 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.

Unhealthy eating habits and participation in organized leisure-time activities in Czech adolescents

A healthy lifestyle habits in adolescents consist of healthy eating patterns and active ways of spending leisure time. This study aimed to examine the relationship between organized leisure-time activities (OLTA) and eating habits in adolescence. Data from the 2013/2014 Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) study on 10,494 Czech adolescents aged 11-15 years was used. The associations of participation in OLTA with ten specific eating habits were analyzed using logistic regression. Involvement in any type of OLTA was associated with higher consumption of daily breakfast, fruit, and vegetables and a lower intake of soft drinks. Participants in non-sport and sport and other activity reported lower rates of unhealthy eating habits (e.g., lower rates of eating crisps and eating in front of the TV or computer). Participation only in sport was related to more frequent eating at fast food restaurants but less frequent snacking in front of the computer and intake of crisps.

CONCLUSION

Participation in OLTA was associated with healthier eating habits (e.g., consumption of fruit and vegetables) and a lower occurrence of unhealthy eating habits (e.g., consumption of soft drinks). Alternatively, our findings indicate that non-participation in OLTA can serve as an indicator of an unhealthy lifestyle in adolescence. What is Known • Unhealthy eating habits in youth tend to persist into adulthood and are related to adverse health consequences later in life. • The type of the leisure-time activity (participation in sport, non-sport, sport, and other activities) affects the strength of developmental outcomes in adolescents. What is New • Youth participating in non-sport activity and sport and other activity concurrently reported lower rates of unhealthy eating habits (e.g., eating junk food, eating in front of the TV/computer). • Non-participation in OLTA could be viewed as a potential risk factor for an unhealthy lifestyle in adolescents.

Is Anatomical Healing Essential for Better Clinical Outcome in Type II SLAP Repair? Clinico-Radiological Outcome after Type II SLAP Repair

Background

We hypothesized that anatomical healing in superior labrum anterior to posterior (SLAP) repair is associated with good clinical outcome. The purposes of this study were to assess the failure rate of anatomical healing after arthroscopic repair of SLAP lesions using computed tomography arthrography (CTA), investigate correlation of the rate with clinical outcomes, and identify prognostic factors for anatomical failure following SLAP repair.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated the outcome of 43 patients at a minimum follow-up of 1 year after arthroscopic surgery for SLAP lesions or SLAP lesions associated with Bankart lesions. Twenty-eight patients underwent isolated SLAP repair and 15 patients underwent Bankart repair with SLAP repair. The anatomical outcome was assessed using CTA at 1 year after surgery. Clinical outcomes including visual analogue scale for pain and satisfaction and Constant score were assessed at the final follow-up. We investigated clinical failure that was defined as stiffness, loss of maximum rotation, deterioration of pain, and/or need for revision of surgery.

Results

Anatomical failure occurred in 32.6% of patients (14/43), whereas 16.3% of patients (7/43) had clinical failure. Clinicoradiological assessment revealed that clinical failure occurred only in 7.1% of patients (1/14) with unhealed SLAP lesions, whereas it occurred in 20.7% of patients (6/29) with healed SLAP lesions. Isolated SLAP repair resulted in a higher risk of anatomical failure (risk ratio, 7.0) than combined SLAP repair (p = 0.015). Nonoverhead activities were associated with higher risk of anatomical failure (risk ratio, 2.9; p = 0.041). Patients above 35 years of age had more risk of anatomical failure (risk ratio, 3.5; p = 0.010). Clinical outcomes significantly improved regardless of anatomical failure (p < 0.001) and were not significantly different between unhealed and healed repairs (all p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Since patients with unhealed SLAP lesions had less clinical failure than patients with healed SLAP lesions, anatomical healing does not seem essential for better clinical outcome of SLAP II repair, especially in patients with higher healing failure risk (isolated SLAP repair, nonoverhead activities, and above 35 years of age). Therefore, we believe the indications of SLAP repair should be narrowed to avoid overtreatment.

Sport for Adults Aged 50+ Years: Participation Benefits and Barriers

Despite the health benefits of sport, the proportion of people participating in sport decreases with age. This qualitative study explored the benefits and barriers regarding older adult community sport participation, from the perspective of national sporting organizations, in addition to older adult sport club and nonsport club members, across eight focus group interviews (n = 49). Seven benefits were discussed, primarily social and physical health and intergenerational opportunities. Ten barriers were also discussed, including physical health, time constraints, and lack of appropriate playing opportunities. Ensuring access to activities that can benefit social health is of great importance to older adults. As sport can provide participation opportunities across generations, it can be an ideal physical activity option for this age group. However, a major barrier is that sport policy often prioritizes the participation for younger age groups. Policymakers should include a focus on older adults, to derive social health benefits.

Girls' transition from participation in a modified sport program to club sport competition - a study of longitudinal patterns and correlates

BACKGROUND

Participation in sport is very popular for young children. Many children participate in entry-level modified sports programs. These programs are modified to match the developmental capacity of children and are aimed at development of fundamental motor skills and sport-specific skills, rather than competition. There is limited research on the longitudinal tracking of children in these programs and into club-based competition. Research suggests that most children drop-out of the sport and do not transition into club-based competition. Furthermore, more females than males drop-out of sport. The aim of this study is to investigate longitudinally, the patterns and demographic predictors of children's transition from modified sport programs to club sport competition for females.

METHODS

This study analysed sport participation for females in a popular Australian, predominantly female, sport. Players of the modified sports program were followed over 4 years to determine their pattern of transition: transition to junior player status, withdraw from the sport, or continue in the modified program. Pattern of transition was compared across age (4-10), geographical region (metropolitan/non-metropolitan) and socio-economic status (SES). Logistic regression was used to model the effect of the three factors on the likelihood of transition.

RESULTS

A total of 13,760 female children (aged 4-10) participated in the modified sport in the first year. The majority (59%) transitioned from the modified sport program and into club competition. However the rate of transition varied with age, residential location and socio-economic status, and there was an interaction between region and SES, with SES having a significant influence on transition in the metropolitan region. The peak sport entry age with the highest rates of transition was 7-9 years.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that whilst the majority of female participants continued participantion and tranisitioned from the modified sport program and into club competition, the strongest correlate of transition was age of entry, with transition rate peaking among those who commenced at age 7-9 years. It is recommended that, in order to maximise continued participation, sport policy and strategic developments should consider the possibility that targeting the very young is not the optimum recruitment strategy for fostering continued sport participation.

Regular Practice of Competitive Sports Does Not Impair Sleep in Adolescents: DADOS Study

PURPOSE

To analyze differences in sleep quality and duration by athletic status and sex, and to examine the association between physical activity (PA) recommendation and sleep in adolescents.

METHODS

A total of 267 adolescents [13.9 (0.3) y] from Deporte, ADOlescencia y Salud (DADOS) study (129 girls) were included in this cross-sectional analysis. Athletes competed regularly in organized sport events and trained ≥3 days per week, but nonathletes did not compete. PA was assessed by GENEActiv accelerometer. PA values were dichotomized into inactive (<60 min/d of moderate and vigorous PA) and active (≥60 min/d of moderate and vigorous PA). Sleep quality was evaluated with the Spanish version of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index values were dichotomized into >5 (poor quality) or ≤5 (good quality). Sleep duration was objectively measured by accelerometer.

RESULTS

Sleep quality and duration were not statistically different between athletes [median (Mdn) = 4.0, interquartile range (IQR) = 3.0-6.0 and Mdn = 8.0, IQR = 7.4-8.6 h, respectively] and nonathletes (Mdn = 5.0, IQR = 3.0-7.0 and Mdn = 7.9; IQR = 7.3-8.6 h, respectively), P > .05. Nonathlete or inactive adolescents did not show higher risk for poor sleep quality or short sleep duration than athletes [odds ratio (OR) = 1.17; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.68-2.00 and OR = 0.93; 95% CI, 0.56-1.55, respectively] or active peers (OR = 1.39; 95% CI, 0.66-2.89 and OR = 1.62; 95% CI, 0.78-3.37, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

In our group of adolescents, competitive sport practice did not alter sleep patterns. PA recommendations for adolescents may not discriminate between good and poor sleepers.

Curling for Confidence: Psychophysical Benefits of Curling for Older Adults

While physical activity is increasingly promoted for older adults, there is a paucity of sport promotion, which has distinct benefits from exercise and remains stereotypically associated with younger age. Curling is a moderately intense and safe sport that continues to gain popularity; however, no research has investigated psychophysical benefits of curling for older adults. The present study compares high-experience (20+ years; n = 63) and low-experience (<20 years; n = 53) curlers (aged 60+ years) with older adult noncurlers (n = 44) on measures of daily functionality, balance confidence, and perceptions of the aging process. While no significant differences were found between high- and low-experience curlers, any level of experience reported significantly better functionality, physical confidence, and aging attitudes compared to noncurlers (p ≤ .05). Although further research is necessary, the results suggest that any level of curling experience can enhance older adult psychophysical well-being, and warrants consideration for physical activity promotion and falls prevention programs.

Sport and ageing: a systematic review of the determinants and trends of participation in sport for older adults

BACKGROUND

The global population is ageing. As ageing is often associated with a decline in health, there is a need to further develop preventative health measures. Physical activity can positively influence older adults' (aged 50 years and older) health. Previous research on the relationship between physical activity and health for older adults has mainly focused on physical activity in general, and not specific types of exercise. Due to the social nature of sport, it may assist in improving physical, mental and social health for older adults. Sport, as a form of physical activity, has not been widely explored as a physical activity opportunity for older adults. This review concurrently explored two research questions: the determinants and the trends of sport participation for community dwelling older adults.

METHODS

Two parallel systematic searches of nine electronic databases were conducted in December 2015 for the two research questions. English language quantitative and qualitative studies that provided specific results for community dwelling older adults' sport participation were included and a quality ratings assessment was undertaken.

RESULTS

There were 10,171 studies initially identified for the first research question and 1992 studies for the second research question. This culminated in 18 and 8 studies respectively that met the inclusion criteria. The most frequently mentioned determinants of participation were health and using sport to negotiate the ageing process. The most frequently mentioned trends of sport participation were the effect of historical sport participation on current participation, and sport participation across the lifespan. The main themes for both research questions had contrasting results, for example, participation in sport could improve health, but poor health was also a limitation of sport participation.

CONCLUSIONS

This review demonstrates that older adults are a heterogeneous age group, and therefore require different strategies than other age groups to successfully participate in sport. It is recommended that the main findings from this review are incorporated into specific strategies to develop age appropriate sporting opportunities for older adults, so that sport can be presented as a viable physical activity option for this age group.

Childhood Sports Participation and Adolescent Sport Profile

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to increase understanding of the link between sport specialization during childhood and adolescent physical activity (PA). The objectives were as follows: (1) describe the natural course of sport participation over 5 years among children who are early sport samplers or early sport specializers and (2) determine if a sport participation profile in childhood predicts the sport profile in adolescence.

METHODS

Participants (n = 756, ages 10-11 years at study inception) reported their participation in organized and unorganized PA during in-class questionnaires administered every 4 months over 5 years. They were categorized as early sport samplers, early sport specializers, or nonparticipants in year 1 and as recreational sport participants, performance sport participants, or nonparticipants in years 2 to 5. The likelihood that a childhood sport profile would predict the adolescent profile was computed as relative risks. Polynomial logistic regression was used to identify predictors of an adolescent sport profile.

RESULTS

Compared with early sport specialization and nonparticipation, early sport sampling in childhood was associated with a higher likelihood of recreational participation (relative risk, 95% confidence interval: 1.55, 1.18-2.03) and a lower likelihood of nonparticipation (0.69, 0.51-0.93) in adolescence. Early sport specialization was associated with a higher likelihood of performance participation (1.65, 1.19-2.28) but not of nonparticipation (1.01, 0.70-1.47) in adolescence. Nonparticipation in childhood was associated with nearly doubling the likelihood of nonparticipation in adolescence (1.88, 1.36-2.62).

CONCLUSIONS

Sport sampling should be promoted in childhood because it may be linked to higher PA levels during adolescence.

The Relationship between Sport Participation and Chronic Diseases among Men in the USA: An Examination of the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System

Sport participation has been associated with lower rates of chronic diseases when compared to other forms of physical activity (PA) among women. However, we do not know if this relationship holds true for men. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between sport participation and men’s health and chronic diseases in the USA. This study was a secondary data analysis of the 2015 national Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) survey. Participants were questioned extensively about their PA behaviors. Seventy-six different activities were identified and these activities were categorized as sport, conditioning exercise, recreation, or household tasks based upon previously identified categories. Logistic regression was utilized to calculate odds and adjusted odds ratios for chronic diseases based on physical activity category. When compared to men who participated in sport, men in the other PA categories had significantly higher odds for all of the chronic diseases except asthma. After controlling for demographic variables, significant odds remain except for stroke. Higher odds for chronic diseases in the other PA categories indicates that men in these group have a higher risk for chronic diseases than men in the sport category. Because of the potential health improvements related to sports participation, it is important to maintain and increase sport participation for both adolescents and adults.

Increasing age in Achilles rupture patients over time

BACKGROUND

The changing demographics of Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) patients have not fully been investigated. However, there has been a general suspicion that this injury is occurring in an increasingly older population, in terms of mean age. The aim of this study was to objectively show an increase in age in Achilles tendon rupture patients over time.

METHODS

Published literature on Achilles tendon ruptures was searched for descriptive statistics on the demographics of patients in the studies, specifically mean and median age of Achilles tendon rupture patients, gender ratio, percentage of athletics-related injuries, percentage of smokers, and BMI. Linear regression analyses were performed to determine the trend of patient demographics over time. A Welch one-way ANOVA was carried out to identify any possible differences in data obtained from different types of studies.

RESULTS

The patient demographics from 142 studies were recorded, with all ATR injuries occurring between the years 1953 and 2014. There was no significant difference in the mean age data reported by varying study types, i.e. randomized controlled trial, cohort study, case series, etc. (P=0.182). There was a statistically significant rise in mean age of ATR patients over time (P<0.0005). There was also a statistically significant drop in percentage of male ATR patients (P=0.02). There is no significant trend for percentage of athletics-related injuries, smoking or BMI.

CONCLUSION

Since 1953 to present day, the mean age at which ATR occurs has been increasing by at least 0.721 years every five years. In the same time period, the percentage of female study patients with ATR injuries has also been increasing by at least 0.6% every five years.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III; Retrospective cohort study.

The influence of a Healthy Welcoming Environment on participation in club sport by adolescent girls: a longitudinal study

Background

This study investigated the perceived influence of a Healthy Welcoming Environment (HWE) on participation in sports clubs among adolescent girls, and how these perceptions changed longitudinally. HWE was defined in terms of a set of health promotion policies advocated by a health promotion foundation as the basis of sport club health promotion practice to promote structural reform in state sporting organisations and their affiliated associations and clubs. These included sports injury prevention, smoke-free, responsible serving of alcohol, sun protection, healthy eating, and welcoming and inclusive environments.

Methods

Year 7 and 11 female students from metropolitan (n = 17) and non-metropolitan secondary schools (n = 14) in Australia were invited to participate in three annual surveys. These surveys collected information about current or past membership of a sports club and the influence of HWEs on their decision to participate (or not) in a sports club.

Results

Year 7 (n = 328; 74.5%) and Year 11 (n = 112; 25.5%) female students completed all three waves (19.6% response rate; 82.7 and 74.0% retention rate). Most agreed that characteristics of HWEs were a positive influence on their participation in sports clubs, except those relating to alcohol and Sunsmart. Welcoming factors had consistent high agreement among respondents. Alcohol and friendliness factors of the club were regarded as being positively influential by higher percentages of non-metropolitan than metropolitan respondents.

Conclusions

Welcoming factors were the most positive influences on decisions to participate in sports clubs. These factors may be important in reducing barriers to sport participation. Strategies supporting the social environment within sports clubs should be prioritised.

Volume and social context of physical activity in association with mental health, anxiety and depression among youth

There is growing interest in physical activity (PA) to prevent mental disorders in youth. However, few studies examine the association between PA and mental health. Further, how PA volume and context relate to mental health and mental disorders remains unclear, especially among youth in transition to adulthood. This study examined the cross-sectional associations among PA volume and context, mental health, and symptoms of anxiety and depression in post-secondary students. A total of 1527 post-secondary students (97.4% were age 16-24years) recruited in a CEGEP in Quebec, Canada completed a self-report questionnaire during class-time in October 2013. Multivariate linear regression was used to model the associations between PA volume and context and mental health, anxiety and depression controlling for sex, age and perceived socioeconomic status. Volume of moderate-to-vigorous leisure time PA (MVPA) was positively associated with mental health (β (95% CI)=0.072 (0.045, 0.099)) and inversely associated with symptoms of anxiety (-0.011 (-0.020, -0.001)) and depression (-0.010 (-0.017, -0.003)). Volume including all PA intensities was associated with mental health (0.052 (0.028, 0.076)). After controlling for PA volume, active youth involved in team sports had better mental health than those who engaged in PA individually. PA volume and the social context of PA are independently associated with mental health among youth. MVPA is inversely associated with anxiety and depressive symptoms.