Kinesiology Research & Publications

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“We’re stronger as a family”: Family experiences and relationships in an adapted physical activity camp
(Elsevier, 2023-11-30) Youngblood, Jessica; McDonough, Meghan H.; Condliffe, Elizabeth G.; Legg, David; Emery, Carolyn A.
Adapted recreation programs involving the entire family may offer ways to enhance relationships in families with a child living with a disability because they enable participating together in new and potentially empowering experiences. This study examined family members’ perspectives on their lived experiences with their relationships within their family and how they perceived they were affected by their participation in an adapted summer camp for families with a child living with a disability. We conducted a collective case study with five families who participated in a week-long camp. A focus group was conducted with each family and analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Participation in the camp impacted family relationships by reducing isolation for mothers; alleviating stress and anxiety which helped families bond; providing shared experience which led to mutual understanding, communication, and support; improving independence and confidence of the child living with a disability; facilitating sibling bonding and parent comfort with giving siblings more responsibility; and enhancing families’ confidence to participate in family activities beyond the camp. These findings elucidate how participation in this type of program can impact relationships in families that include a child living with a disability and inform future program design.
Open Access
Are subject-specific models necessary to predict patellar tendon fatigue life? A finite element modelling study
(Taylor & Francis, 2021-09-11) Firminger, Colin R.; Haider, Ifaz T.; Bruce, Olivia L.; Wannop, John W.; Stefanyshyn, Darren J.; Edwards, W Brent
Patellar tendinopathy is an overuse injury that occurs from repetitive loading of the patellar tendon in a scenario resembling that of mechanical fatigue. As such, fatigue-life estimates provide a quantifiable approach to assess tendinopathy risk and may be tabulated using nominal strain (NS) or finite element (FE) models with varied subject-specificity. We compared patellar tendon fatigue-life estimates from NS and FE models of twenty-nine athletes performing countermovement jumps with subject-specific versus generic geometry and material properties. Subject-specific patellar tendon material properties and geometry were obtained using a data collection protocol of dynamometry, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging. Three FE models were created for each subject, with: subject-specific (hyperelastic) material properties and geometry, subject-specific material properties and generic geometry, and generic material properties and subject-specific geometry. Four NS models were created for each subject, with: subject-specific (linear elastic) material properties and moment arm, generic material properties and subject-specific moment arm, subject-specific material properties and generic moment arm, and generic material properties and moment arm. NS- and FE-modelled fatigue-life estimates with generic material properties were poorly correlated with their subject-specific counterparts (r2≤0.073), while all NS models overestimated fatigue life compared to the subject-specific FE model (r2≤0.223). Furthermore, FE models with generic tendon geometry were unable to accurately represent the heterogeneous strain distributions found in the subject-specific FE models or those with generic material properties. These findings illustrate the importance of incorporating subject-specific material properties and FE-modelled strain distributions into fatigue-life estimations.
Open Access
Effects of minimalist footwear and stride length reduction on the probability of metatarsal stress fracture: A weibull analysis with bone repair
(Taylor & Francis, 2017-05-10) Firminger, Colin R.; Edwards, W. Brent
Open Access
Effects of cyclic loading on the mechanical properties and failure of human patellar tendon
(Journal of Biomechanics, 2021) Firminger, Colin R.; Edwards, W. Brent
Patellar tendinopathy is a common overuse injury in sports such as volleyball, basketball, and long-distance running. Microdamage accumulation, in response to repetitive loading of the tendon, plays an important role in the pathophysiology of patellar tendinopathy. This damage presents mechanically as a reduction in Young’s modulus and an increase in residual strain. In this study, 19 human patellar tendon samples underwent cyclic testing in load control until failure, segmented by four ramped tests where digital image correlation (DIC) was used to assess anterior surface strain distributions. Ramped tests were performed prior to cyclic testing and at timepoints corresponding to 10%, 20%, and 30% of cyclic stiffness reduction. Young’s modulus significantly decreased and cyclic energy dissipation significantly increased over the course of cyclic testing. The DIC analysis illustrated a heterogeneous strain distribution, with strain concentrations increasing in magnitude and size over the course of cyclic testing. Peak stress and initial peak strain magnitudes significantly correlated with the number of cycles to failure (r2 = 0.65 and r2 = 0.57, respectively, p < 0.001); however, the rates of peak cyclic strain and modulus loss displayed the highest correlations with the number of cycles to failure (r2 = 96% and r2 = 86%, respectively, p < 0.001). The high correlation between the rates of peak cyclic strain and modulus loss suggest that non-invasive methods to continuously monitor tendon strain may provide meaningful predictions of overuse injury in the patellar tendon.
Open Access
A biomechanical study of clamping technique on patellar tendon surface strain and material properties using digital image correlation
(Elsevier, 2021-01-01) Firminger, Colin R.; Edwards, W. Brent
Several clamping techniques exist for ex vivo mechanical testing of tendon. For the patellar tendon, one can choose to clamp directly to the bony attachment sites, the tendon itself, or a combination of the two; however, the influence of these techniques on localized strains and gross material properties is unknown. To this end, uniaxial tensile tests were performed on eleven porcine patellar tendons in three clamping setups while digital image correlation was used to measure axial and transverse strains, Young's modulus, and Poisson's ratio. The setups involved clamping to: 1) the patella and tibia, 2) the patella and the dissected distal tendon, and 3) the dissected proximal and distal tendon. Axial strains in the tendon-tendon clamping setup were 181% higher than patella-tibia clamping (p = 0.002) and 131% higher than patella-tendon clamping (p = 0.006). Transverse strains were not significantly different between clamping conditions (p ≥ 0.118). Young's modulus was 50% (p < 0.001) greater for patella-tibia clamping and 42% (p < 0.001) greater for patella-tendon clamping when compared to tendon-tendon clamping. For all clamping setups, the tendon illustrated auxetic behaviour (i.e., negative Poisson's ratio); however, the Poisson's ratios were 80% smaller in the patella-tibia setup (p = 0.006) and 71% smaller patella-tendon setup (p = 0.007) compared to the tendon-tendon setup. These results illustrate that discretion should be utilized when reporting material properties derived from mechanical tests involving direct clamping to the dissected patellar tendon at both ends, as this clamping technique significantly increases axial strains, reduces Young's modulus, and alters the tendon's natural auxetic behaviour.
Open Access
Female athletes’ decisions to use hormonal contraceptives: a scoping review protocol.
(2024) Suarez Moreno, Paula; Van Den Berg, Carla; Hayden, K. Alix; Doyle-Baker, Patricia K.
Female athletes from a variety of sports indicate a perceived impact of the menstrual cycle (MC) on their performance (Brown et al., 2021; Ekenros et al., 2022; Findlay et al., 2020). Female athletes often choose to use hormonal contraceptives (HC’s) and although their reasons vary, the most consistent one is related to the impact of the MC on performance and training. For example, in a study by Martin et al., (2018) a third of 145 combined oral contraceptive athlete users perceived that cycle manipulation to avoid menstruation can be considered a positive outcome of oral contraceptive use. Therefore, the objective of this scoping review is to investigate the extent of evidence associated with the reasons behind female athletes’ decision to use or discontinue use of hormonal contraceptives. The inclusion criteria included a) female (sex assigned at birth), b) athletes actively participating in competition, of which the majority are competing at least a regional level (Swann et al., 2015), c) sample is mostly age 18 years or older, d) discusses knowledge, reasons, perceptions, attitudes, beliefs of the athletes as related to their decisions regarding HC use and e) discusses history of hormonal contraceptive use either current or previous as an athlete. The JBI guidelines for scoping reviews found in the JBI Manual for Evidence Synthesis (2020) will be followed and this review will be reported in accordance with the PRISMA –SCr extension (Peters et al., 2020; Tricco et al., 2018).
Open Access
A Scoping Review Protocol on Experiential Learning in Higher Education First-Year Undergraduate Courses
(2023-11) Christophe, MacKenna; Din, Cari; Hayden, K. Alix
Embargo
Social support and social barriers for participating in group physical activity among older women living alone
(Taylor & Francis, 2023-06-27) Beselt, L. Jayne; McDonough, Meghan H.; Hewson, Jennifer; Din, Cari
Older adults who live alone are more likely to experience social isolation. Physical activity (PA) provides an opportunity and purpose for participating socially, but there may be social barriers for this population. We examined experiences with social support, social connections, and social barriers related to participating in group PA among older adult women who live alone. Older adult women (n = 16; Mage = 66.9 years, the majority of whom were White) who live alone were interviewed, and data were thematically analysed. Perspectives on living alone varied, with some valuing the freedom of not accommodating another person, while others felt it hampered motivation. Group PA contexts could provide a community who would notice if something was wrong, motivation to leave the house, and a source of comparison for inspiration and benchmarking progress, but some experienced a lack of support and women varied in their perspectives on what supports met their needs. Barriers included challenges with engaging with unfamiliar social groups alone. Many discussed the perspective that they took responsibility for motivating their own PA. Living alone has varied advantages and challenges, and PA may fill support needs in this population. Programs should consider barriers such as the awkwardness of entering social situations alone, and structure classes to encourage social participation and opportunities for building closer connections for those who seek them.
Open Access
Social supports and barriers for older adults not currently participating in group physical activity
(Human Kinetics, 2023-08-14) Morrison, Lindsay; McDonough, Meghan H; Hewson, Jennifer; Toohey, Ann; Din, Cari; Kenny, Sarah J; Crocker, Peter
Group physical activity can provide physical and social benefits; however, social barriers or a lack of social support may affect participation. This study examined social support needs and barriers among older adults who were not participating in group physical activities. Using interpretive description, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 38 older adults (M = 5 70.9 years; 81.6% women). Themes were grouped into two categories. Category one, expectations and initial impressions, consisted of: (1) groups cannot meet everyone's expectations or interests; (2) groups are intimidating to join; and (3) the need for inclusive programming. Category two, social processes within group physical activity, consisted of: (1) modelling physical activity behaviours; (2) sharing information and suggestions about physical activity opportunities; and (3) encouragement and genuine interest. Outreach to this population should aim to address these barriers and utilize these supportive behaviours to reduce feelings of intimidation and promote participation among older adults.
Open Access
"We're a lot closer, we talk more": Family experiences and relationships following child's participation in an adapted physical activity camp
(Taylor & Francis, 2023-06-25) Jessica Youngblood; Meghan H. McDonough; Elizabeth G. Condliffe; David Legg; Carolyn A. Emery
Purpose: Children and adolescents with developmental challenges may rely on their parents for assistance with everyday tasks to a greater extent than typically developing children. The objective of this study was to examine family members’ perspectives regarding family relationships related to participation in an adapted summer camp for children and adolescents living with a disability. Materials and Methods: A collective case study was conducted with eleven families who had a child living with a disability who participated in an adapted physical activity (PA) summer camp. A focus group was conducted with each family and thematically analyzed. Results: Families experienced changes in perspectives and pride surrounding adapted PA, more family conversations about disability, less parental worry, more independence of the child living with a disability, and enhanced family bonds through PA. The children who participated in the camp saw impacts on their self-confidence and independence. COVID-19-related program suspension was associated with frustration, worry, and strained family relationships. Conclusions: These findings elucidate how participation in adapted PA for children and youth with disabilities can impact family relationships. Future interventions allow for space for family interactions and create opportunity for children and adolescents with disabilities to be independent.
Open Access
Motivations for use, user experience, and quality of menstrual cycle tracking mobile applications: A scoping review protocol
(2023-07-05) Kazakoff, Alissa; Doroshuk, Marissa L.; Ganshorn, Heather; Doyle-Baker, Patricia K.
Objective: This scoping review aims to comprehensively assess and describe the existing peerreviewed literature on motivations for use, user experience, and menstrual cycle app quality. Introduction: The global mHealth market is growing at an unprecedented rate and is expected to reach an estimated value of $18.7 billion by 2030 (Prophecy Market Insights, 2021). Tracking health and menstrual cycle metrics can empower individuals by increasing awareness and understanding of their menstrual cycle, being prepared for different cycle phases, contraception and fertility, improving health-related behaviours, and informing conversations with healthcare providers (Epstein et al., 2017; Levy & Romo-Avilés 2019; Karasneh et al., 2020; Adnan et al., 2021; Gonçalves et al., 2021). Recent studies have identified several different factors that render users more likely for continued app use. These include perceived personal and health benefits, app accuracy, usability, and user-friendly design (Karasneh et al, 2020; Schantz et al., 2021). Inclusion criteria: This scoping review will investigate the existing literature on menstrual cycle tracking app use and factors contributing to user retention, such as motivations for the use of the app, user experience, and app quality. All studies published in English after 2010 will be included related to investigating apps that serve a pre-menopausal menstrual cycle app user base, given that relevant data may be included even in studies where the scoping review research question is not the focus. Methods: The search strategy will aim to locate peer-reviewed studies. An initial limited search of MEDLINE was undertaken to identify articles on the topic. Studies published in English will be included. Studies published since 2010 will be included as that timeline is most appropriate for the introduction of smartphones and smartphone apps on the market. The databases to be searched include MEDLINE (Ovid platform), Embase (Ovid platform), Scopus (Elsevier), ACM Digital Library, and IEEE Xplore.
Open Access
Molecular Mechanisms of Muscle Contraction: A Historical Perspective
(Elsevier, 2023-06) Herzog, Walter; Schappacher-Tilp, Gudrun
Studies of muscle structure and function can be traced to at least 2,000 years ago. However, the modern era of muscle contraction mechanisms started in the 1950s with the classic works by AF Huxley and HE Huxley, both born in the United Kingdom, but not related and working independently. HE Huxley was the first to suggest that muscle contraction occurred through the sliding of two sets of filamentous structures (actin or thin filaments and myosin or thick filaments). AF Huxley then developed a biologically inspired mathematical model suggesting a possible molecular mechanism of how this sliding of actin and myosin might take place. This model then evolved from a two-state to a multi-state model of myosin-actin interactions, and from one that suggested a linear motor causing the sliding to a rotating motor. This model, the cross-bridge model of muscle contraction, is still widely used in biomechanics, and even the more sophisticated cross-bridge models of today still contain many of the features originally proposed by AF Huxley. In 2002, we discovered a hitherto unknown property of muscle contraction that suggested the involvement of passive structures in active force production, the so-called passive force enhancement. It was quickly revealed that this passive force enhancement was caused by the filamentous protein titin, and the three-filament (actin, myosin, and titin) sarcomere model of muscle contraction evolved. There are many suggestions of how these three proteins interact to cause contraction and produce active force, and one such suggestion is described here, but the molecular details of this proposed mechanism still need careful evaluation.
Embargo
Experiences with social support among older adult women participating in gay square dancing
(Elsevier, 2023-04) Beselt, L. Jayne; McDonough, Meghan H.; Walsh, Christine A.; Kenny, Sarah J.
LGBTQI2S+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, intersex, and two-spirit, etc.) individuals face unique challenges to physical activity participation, such as discrimination and exclusion. Square dance is a form of collaborative group dancing and while traditionally a heteronormative form of dance, gay square dance is typically open to everyone, regardless of sexual orientation. Square dancing offers opportunities to belong to a community of others engaged in the same activity, which older adults often find satisfying. The aim of this research was to understand how older adults who identify as women experience social support in the context of participating in gay square dance and the role previous experiences of social exclusion play in influencing these experiences. Fourteen self-identified women (age range 55–79 years; n = 11 White, n = 1 Black, n = 2 Jewish) belonging to a gay square dance club participated. Participants self-identified as heterosexual (n = 7), lesbian (n = 3), pansexual (n = 1), bisexual (n = 1), or did not identify with existing terminology (n = 2). Interviews were conducted during a gay square-dancing festival and thematically analyzed. Findings highlighted that participants experienced acceptance which affirmed their sense of self and enabled their authentic selves. To foster a sense of belonging and close relationships, specific actions (e.g., demonstrative welcoming of newcomers, mutual support) were taken by other participants in the group. Physical touch is an inherent part of square dancing, which took on different meanings for participants and was overall perceived as safe. Inclusive groups like gay square dance clubs are an important and consistent means where older adult women can experience meaningful social relationships and interactions.
Open Access
Instructor Social Support in the Group Physical Activity Context: Older Participants’ Perspectives
(Human Kinetics, 2023-03-22) Morrison, Lindsay; McDonough, Meghan H.; Zimmer, Chantelle; Din, Cari; Hewson, Jennifer; Toohey, Ann; Crocker, Peter R. E.; Bennett, Erica V.
Instructors in organized physical activity classes can be a source of social support through their relationships with participants, influence on participants’ interactions with each other, and design of activities. Grounded in interpretive description, the objective of this study was to examine older adults’ experiences of and their perspectives on group physical activity instructors’ supportive behaviors. Observations of 16 group physical activity classes (N = 295) and focus groups or interviews with N = 38 class participants aged ≥ 55 (n = 29 women) were conducted at four municipal recreation facilities in a Canadian city. Five themes shed light on how instructors provided social support: (a) supporting autonomous engagement, (b) developing caring connections, (c) fostering trust through expert instruction, (d) managing conflict directly and effectively, and (e) creating a climate where people want to go. Instructor training should consider older adults’ social support needs and help instructors embody behaviors that support continued physical activity participation, thereby contributing to healthy aging.
Open Access
Social support and physical activity for cancer survivors: a qualitative review and meta-study
(Springer, 2020-10-31) McDonough, Meghan H; Beselt, L Jayne; Kronlund, Liam J; Albinati, Natalia K; Daun, Julia T; Trudeau, Melanie S; Wong, Janet B; Culos-Reed, S Nicole; Bridel, William
Physical activity (PA) is important for well-being and coping among cancer survivors. Social support (SS) encourages adoption and maintenance of PA behavior, and PA contexts can provide opportunities for obtaining support for coping with cancer. The qualitative literature examining cancer survivors' experience with SS in and for PA could inform understanding of behaviors experienced as supportive. The purpose of this meta-study was to synthesize the research on adult cancer survivors' experiences with SS related to PA. Methods: Following meta-study guidelines, we searched nine databases and retrieved 39 articles describing intervention and observation studies, and extracted, analyzed, and synthesized information addressing SS and PA in cancer survivors. Results: Results emphasized ways that PA contexts facilitate relationships, which are a foundation for obtaining supportive behaviours that enable PA (e.g., providing encouragement and accountability) and assist with coping with cancer (e.g., understanding and talking about cancer). Some themes identified were unique to studies with female breast cancer, advanced cancer, interventions or programs, and that used interviews versus focus groups. Conclusions: Understanding supportive behaviours could improve PA and coping with cancer in interventions. Future research should focus on identifying supportive behaviours, incorporating theory and methods to address the development of supportive relationships, and recruiting more diverse samples of participants in terms of gender, race/ethnicity, and cancer type. Implications for cancer survivors: PA can provide opportunities for positive social connections ranging from loose to close social ties, and this research identifies several behaviours in the PA context that may be supportive of PA behavior (e.g., providing actionable information), and coping with cancer (e.g., opportunities but low obligation to talk about cancer).
Open Access
Social support and body image in group physical activity programs for older women
(Human Kinetics, 2022-07-23) Patterson, Michelle C.; McDonough, Meghan H.; Hewson, Jennifer; Culos-Reed, S. Nicole; Bennett, Erica
Physical declines with aging may negatively impact women’s body image. Group physical activity can be a source of social support that may improve body image. We examined how social support experienced in group physical activity programs impact older women’s body image. Guided by interpretive description, 14 women aged 65 and older who participated in group physical activity classes were interviewed. While women experienced both positive and negative body image, body image was generally positively impacted by physical activity. Four themes described social support processes that affected body image in the physical activity context: fitting in and being inspired through identifying with others; what is discussed, and not discussed; providing comfort, understanding, and acceptance; and skilled and empathetic interactions with instructors. Understanding how social support in group physical activity can promote positive body image throughout aging can inform practical guidelines for facilitating and improving support in this context.
Open Access
The Feasibility and Impact of a Painted Designs Intervention on School Children’s Physical Activity
(Taylor and Francis Group, 2022-06-16) Wong, Janet B.; McCallum, Kyle S.; Frehlich, Levi; Bridel, William; McDonough, Meghan H.; McCormack, Gavin R.; Fox, Kris; Brunton, Laura; Yardley, Leah; Emery, Carolyn A.; Hagel, Brent
Interventions such as painted designs on school tarmacs may increase children’s physical activity during school hours. This mixed-methods study examined the influence of a painted designs (e.g., traditional games, random circles) intervention on the physical activity experiences of elementary school children. Systematic observations and accelerometer data were collected to evaluate the type and quantity of student physical activity. Interviews were used to explore teacher and student experiences. Observed physical activity was not significantly different between intervention and control schools (t(43) = 0.22, p = 0.83), and children at the intervention schools undertook less physical activity (steps, moderate, vigorous, and combined moderate-to-vigorous activity) as compared with the control school (t = 2.71- 4.35, p < 0.05). Teachers and students commented that the painted designs were confusing but held potential for inclusiveness, physical activity, and learning. Additional resources and instruction may assist in better use of painted designs for physical activity and academic learning.
Open Access
The role of social support in physical activity for cancer survivors: A systematic review
(Wiley, 2019-10-28) McDonough, Meghan H; Beselt, L Jayne; Daun, Julia T; Shank, Jena; Culos-Reed, S Nicole; Kronlund, Liam J; Bridel, William
Social support is conceptualized and operationalized in many ways, making it challenging to understand what types of support best predict physical activity (PA) in cancer survivors. This review examined associations between social support and PA among cancer survivors. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, we searched eight databases for studies that reported an association between social support and PA among adult cancer survivors. We conducted an appraisal and a narrative synthesis of the findings from quantitative studies. Results: N=50 studies representing 28,366 participants were included. Studies collectively included concepts addressing the presence of relationships, others’ PA behavior, perceptions of being supported, and function/quality. Findings were mixed in suggesting a positive or null association with PA. Conclusions: While results are not definitive, this review takes a step toward mapping the social support literature in PA for cancer survivors. Limitations include the homogeneity of the participants in extant studies, and the secondary focus on testing the effects of social support on outcomes. Future research systematically testing the effects of social support is important for facilitating PA in this population.
Open Access
The role of peers and the recreational environment in adolescent emotional safety
(Taylor and Francis Group, 2022-03-04) Wong, Janet B.; McDonough, Meghan H.; Bridel, William; Culos-Reed, S. Nicole
Emotional safety is important for facilitating positive outcomes in afterschool programs. Emotional safety is not clearly conceptualized, and participants’ understandings of, and experiences with how the social and built environment contribute to emotional safety in afterschool programs is not well established. This qualitative case study examined early and middle adolescents’ experiences with their peers and the program environment, and how those experiences contributed to their feelings of emotional safety, from the perspective of both youth and staff working in afterschool recreational programs. Ten adolescents between the ages of 11 and 15 along with 10 staff at two afterschool programs in low-income urban neighbourhoods were interviewed. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Adolescents described emotional safety as being understood and not feeling like they had to hide their authentic selves. Youth felt emotionally safe among trusted peers and staff who would protect them, when they felt free and had choices, and when they were in spaces where they felt comfortable. Findings have implications for youth afterschool programming and among staff who work with youth.
Open Access
A Meta-Study of Qualitative Research on Social Support Related to Physical Activity Among Older Adults
(Human Kinetics, 2022-01-03) Beselt, L. Jayne; Patterson, Michelle C.; McDonough, Meghan H.; MacKay, Scott
Physical activity (PA) and social support have known benefits for the wellbeing and health of older adults, and social support is associated with PA behavior and positive affective experiences in PA contexts. The aim of this study was to synthesize qualitative research conducted on the experiences of social support related to PA among older adults (age ≥55 years). Following meta-study methodology, we searched 9 databases and extracted information from 31 studies. Results were synthesised in terms of common themes, and in light of theoretical and methodological perspectives used. The qualitative literature identifies supportive behaviors and social network outcomes which may be useful for informing how best to support older adults to be physically active. This literature rarely reflected the experiences of vulnerable populations and future research should aim to further understand supportive behaviors which enable older adults to overcome barriers and challenges to being physically active.