Harris et al 2009 performed a meta-analysis of the literature on the effects of school-based health and exercise interventions. Of nearly 400 articles, 18 were performed to sufficient standard to meet inclusion criteria. The analysis shows that at this time, school-based health and exercise interventions did not change BMI or % body fat. This would [...]
Fedewa and Ahn 2011 completed a meta-analysis of 59 studies from 1947 through to 2009. Over 200 different metrics were used through the studies however the conclusion was clear. Physical activity, exercise, organized games, free play and all other forms of movement have small but measurable effects on children’s attention, cognition, stress, mental health, memory [...]
Few guidelines exist to inform the coach when a youth athlete is ready to transition from motor-skill training (e.g. co-ordination, agility, balance, reaction-time) to strength training (force-velocity training, strength and power). Naturally, both are important and desirable qualities in any athlete, but a time does arrive when the emphasis switches from one to the other. [...]
The effect of early specialization on long-term athlete development is evidenced on physical and psychological levels. Harre et al. (1982) compared the major differences in athletes who specialized early v those who had a multilateral development: Early Specialisation v Multilateral Development 1. Quick performance improvements v Slower performance improvements 2. Best performances aged 15-16 years [...]
Pictured above is Brian O’Driscoll, Irish captain at the 2011 Rugby World Cup. He has captained Ireland to the Grand Slam title, was IRB World Rugby player of the year in 2001 and recently voted World Rugby player of the decade 2000 – 2009. In truth, he probably could have been a world-class athlete in [...]
Should children and adolescents resistance train? The research says yes. The Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology have published a position stand on this topic and raise the following points in their abstract: – There is no minimum age for resistance training in children – Resistance training should include a proper warm-up, cool-down and appropriate exercises [...]