

For example, Fallon discusses training load modification rather than cessation for a number of common overuse syndromes. A key finding has been that the historically popular advice to sick or injured athletes to stop physical activity pending recovery is now not recommended. The science behind the management of athletes with injury or illness has exploded over the past two decades. Therefore, it may be helpful to clarify whether patients are athletes, as this may affect the nature of advice and treatment. In light of these criteria, it can be seen that athletes are found across the entire population demographic spectrum.įrom a general practitioner (GP) perspective, this means that their patient base may include a number of athletes. the sport is a major focus of interest.

the participant is a member of a sports club.the individual participates in competitions.the participant is training to improve performance.How many of these participants are athletes? There are four required criteria, which are not overly onerous: 7,8 Sports that are more technical are also rising in popularity for example, Triathlon Australia reported 35,614 participants in 2018 – a 30% increase from 2017 – plus an additional 36,000 children in Triathlon Australia–branded school events. Hence, athletes no longer fall into the stereotyped demographic and include those who might appear at first glance least likely, such as women aged >60 years. 5 There is also evidence that less experienced runners are increasingly attracted to the sport. 5 Female runners now outnumber male runners, with older runners becoming more common. What do we know about this apparently select group? Anderson reports that global participation in running has risen by 58% in the past 10 years to 7.9 million people, with the primary motivation appearing to move from an achievement to a psychological, health and social focus. 2 Yet, the headline news regarding Australian physical activity trends highlights that only 15% (2.8 million) of people aged ≥18 years meet the minimum activity guidelines for physical activity and muscle strengthening. The importance of physical activity as a core component of the suite of preventive measures central to improving health outcomes has been documented since the Ancient Greek period.
