Data collection and analysis helps coaches ensure that they conduct practices and make decisions based on objective and consistently recorded information. The article discusses how, where, and when coaches should collect data on athletes, noting data collection should emphasize include training loads, body weight, sleep, health, and injuries. (SM)

Facts about growth hormone abuse should be incorporated into substance abuse components of health education curriculums. Sources, uses, and dangers associated with human growth hormones are discussed. A sample lesson plan is included. (IAH)

More male than female physicians practice sports medicine, though women are an increasing presence. The article examines reasons for the discrepancy (e.g., lack of interest or lack of opportunity) and discusses ways to work for change and create opportunities for women in the field. (SM)

Physically active adolescent girls and young women who eliminate meat from their diets risk developing protein, iron, and zinc deficiencies. Meatless diets signal the possibility of amenorrhea and/or disordered eating, with the attendant risk of osteoporosis. Physicians must educate young women, parents, and coaches about the risks of meatless…

This conference was convened to develop guidelines for programs to monitor the rates and costs of youth sports injuries. Following the Preface (L. E. Shulman), Introduction (D. G. Murray), and Summary (D. G. Murray), "Subjects for Further Research or Implementation" are listed. The 19 papers presented at the conference were: (1)…

Discusses contraindications to athletic participation, examining the cardiac, respiratory, and central nervous system conditions that warrant activity disqualification. Provides guidelines about when it is safe for individuals to participate, and discusses the physician's responsibility. (SM)

Findings from a survey of 92 American medical school curriculums suggest that physicians may be unprepared to offer effective counseling on exercise. The survey showed that 67 percent of schools had no formal instruction in exercise medicine. A required course emphasizing cardiorespiratory fitness is recommended. (IAH)

Gives information about opportunities, job tasks, and educational requirements of sports-related jobs in high school, college, and professional athletics: coaches, sports medicine specialists, managers, public relations specialists, and trainers. (SK)

Although cheerleading carries a relatively low injury risk, injuries that do occur can be severe, commonly affecting the ankle, head, and neck. Two case reports are presented that illustrate acute injuries typical of cheerleading. Prevention recommendations are offered related to supervising, screening, limiting stunts, optimizing the environment…

The training phase of a rehabilitation program for football players who have sustained lower back injuries proceeds after the pain-control phase, and seeks to minimize risk of reinjury. This phase emphasizes movement training and exercise for strengthening abdominal muscles to stabilize the lumbar spine. A removable exercise guide is included.…

Survey of 100 young female gymnasts examined injuries over a 40-month period. Injury rates were similar to those found in other studies of female competitive gymnasts, but there were several notable findings regarding injury patterns. Prevention methods to reduce injury include modifying mat design and prescribing strengthening and stretching…

Alcohol consumption affects virtually every organ and system of the body. The article examines the negative physiological and psychomotor effects of short-term alcohol consumption relevant to physical fitness and athletic performance. Educators must be responsible for reaching students and discussing the issue. (SM)

Discusses the basics of the preparticipation exam, focusing on aspects specific to females, such as menstrual dysfunction, disordered eating, and orthopedic problems such as scoliosis and patellofemoral pain. Health history questionnaire and other parts of the exam are included in six tables. (SM)

This document presents texts in the field of sports and doping that were adopted by various committees of the Council of Europe. The seven sections present: (1) "Texts Adopted by the Committee of Ministers, 1996-1988"; (2) "Texts Adopted at the Conferences of European Ministers Responsible for Sport Since 1978" and…

Integrated a psychosocial developmental theory (the Kubler-Ross Stage Theory) and a psychological stage theory (the Ross Stage Theory) and a psychological stage theory (the Chickering and Reisser psychosocial and developmental theory) for challenging injured collegiate student-athletes' personal development. A search of online databases from…