A significant number of elementary school-aged children participate in some form of athletic activity. As they become pre-teens, the percentage of these children involved in sports lessens, especially as children begin to recognize differences in athletic abilities. Research assessing youth sports suggests that adults and peers can increase…

A collapse and cardiac arrest from Commotio Cordis can occur instantaneously from a relatively modest and nonpenetrating blow to the chest in the absence of underlying cardiovascular disease or structural injury to the chest wall or heart itself (Maron, 1998). It is important to note that this collapse could be instantaneous or proceeded by brief…

"Her Life Depends On It III" (HLDOI) is the Women's Sports Foundation's comprehensive report that reviews existing and emerging research on the links between participation in sport and physical activity and the health and well-being of American girls and women. As with the previous editions in 2004 and 2009, this study also confirms that…

Health screenings conducted during Special Olympics competitions and games have consistently shown that a significant number of athletes with intellectual disabilities (IDs) were overweight or obese, and surveys have indicated that athletes need more fitness training than they receive from their sport practices. In 2002, Special Olympics initiated…

The health benefits of engaging in regular physical activity are widely known: enhanced cardiorespiratory fitness, increased muscular strength and endurance, and favorable cholesterol and other profiles. Nevertheless, particularly in youth sports programs run by volunteer, and perhaps inadequately trained, coaches, many youth may not realize the…

In this article, the authors discuss the important role that coaches play in the overall development of athletes' ability, physical well being, mental maturity, discipline and sportsmanship. It is crucial for coaches to provide quality coaching to younger athletes so they can obtain a positive experience through athletic activities. This article…

Research indicates athletes may require more of certain nutrients than other healthy individuals. The article discusses vitamin requirements and deficiencies and how to supply the needed nutrients. Since coaches, trainers, and physical education teachers influence their athletes' behaviors, they must examine the issues associated with vitamin…