This week in the world of sports science, here’s what happened…
- Smelling salts banned in the NFL… or are they?
- The issue with women’s rugby boots!
- Project FASTT
Smelling salts banned in the NFL… or are they?
The NFL is undergoing a significant change for the upcoming season, as it has recently been announced that “smelling salts” and other ammonia inhalants will be banned (see article here).
Smelling salts and similar ammonia inhalants are often marketed as tools for boosting mental alertness and energy levels. However, the FDA has pointed out that there is insufficient credible evidence to support their safety and effectiveness, which is a key reason behind the ban. Additionally, the FDA has raised concerns that these substances can mask important neurological signs and symptoms, including potential indicators of a concussion.
The decision sparked criticism from prominent players, including San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle. In response to the backlash, the NFL clarified its position: while smelling salts and other ammonia products are officially banned, players are still allowed to bring and use their own, provided the team does not supply them. So essentially, they are not banded!
The NFL has truly made a mockery of itself with this decision reversal, clearly caving in to player backlash! Let’s hope that this choice won’t harm the welfare and long-term health of the players.
We have an excellent blog: Concussion Recovery in Sport: A Comprehensive Guide and a course: Concussion Rehab, which are well worth checking out!
The issue with women’s rugby boots!
Two years ago, during the Women’s Football World Cup, we featured a story on IDA football boots, which are specifically designed for female athletes. With the Women’s Rugby World Cup approaching, IDA Sports is once again in the spotlight.
A recent article in The Guardian highlights new research indicating that 89% of female rugby players experience pain resulting from the use of boots originally designed for men. Research conducted by IDA Sports revealed that nearly 50% of female rugby players report pain under the first metatarsal bone, the area where a stud is typically positioned on “male” boots. It is important to note that women’s feet and arches differ from those of men, and improper stud placement can heighten the risk of injury.
Moreover, anecdotal reports suggest that many female rugby players resort to filing down studs in an attempt to alleviate discomfort. This is where IDA Sports plays a crucial role, as they have developed boots specifically designed for female athletes.
It will be interesting to see how many players choose IDA boots during the Women’s Rugby World Cup. Additionally, praise should be given to Laura Youngson, the co-founder and CEO of IDA Sports, for her commitment to improving women’s sports.
Project FASTT
A fascinating new project is underway at Monash University in Melbourne, Australia, led by Dr. Elise Facer-Childs. Named Project FASTT (Female Athlete Sleep, Travel, and Technology), this initiative aims to uncover new insights into the physiological changes associated with sleep, circadian disruptions, and the effects of the menstrual cycle on female athletes.
Project FASTT features a global team of researchers in sleep science and sports medicine, collaborating with the wearable tech company WHOOP to track sleep stages and recovery data. Melatonin assessments, along with data on menstrual cycles, mental health, performance, and nutrition, will also be collected.
This project has the potential to generate valuable insights for female athletes, and it will be fascinating to see the findings and recommendations of Project FASTT. To find out more about Project FASTT, click here.
If you are interested in this topic, check out our blog, Understanding and Approaching the Entire Menstrual Cycle: A Guide for Coaches and our course, The Effects of Travel on Athletes’ Performance.
From us this week:
>> New course: Anaerobic Conditioning
>> New podcast: From NFL Star to MMA Innovator: Shawne Merriman on Sports Science & tech in Combat Sports
>> New infographic: Plyometric Training
>> New article: Hydrotherapy
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