Gaelic Games coaches' awareness and knowledge of physical activity guidelines

Oral Presentation B10.5

Authors

  • Kevin Gavin Athlone Institute of Technology
  • Aoife Lane https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7985-5436
  • Kieran Dowd Athlone Institute of Technology

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14288/hfjc.v14i3.555

Keywords:

Sport, Physical Activity, Youth

Abstract

Background: Sport is highlighted as one of the “eight investments that work” for increasing physical activity (PA) and the coach has an important influence on the PA levels attained during sport. It remains unclear whether coaches are aware of their role in PA provision, with skill and game development typically the primary focus of practice sessions. Consequently, it is appropriate to investigate coaches’ knowledge of PA guidelines (PAGL) and PA provision in sport settings. Purpose: To evaluate youth Gaelic games (GG) coaches’ awareness, knowledge, and perceptions of PA and PAGL. Methods: An online survey was completed by 1660 youth GG coaches (398 females), which included items on awareness and knowledge of youth PAGL, and their perceptions of PA in coaching. Results: A majority of coaches (45.1%) were not aware of the PAGL, with 15.5% of coaches correctly identifying the MVPA guideline. A majority of coaches agree that GG participation should make a significant contribution to players' PA levels (90.4%), they support players to be physically active during practices (93.2%), and they perceive themselves as role models for players in terms of PA (80.9%). Conclusions: Coaches appreciate the importance of their players accumulating PA, yet a low proportion are aware of or can accurately identify the PAGL. The development of formal coach education modules on PAGL and approaches to increase the PA attained during GG practices may be useful strategies to ensure sport makes a positive contribution to PA. Funding: AIT President’s Doctoral Scholarship.

Published

2021-09-30

How to Cite

Gavin, K., Lane, A., & Dowd, K. (2021). Gaelic Games coaches’ awareness and knowledge of physical activity guidelines: Oral Presentation B10.5. The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, 14(3). https://doi.org/10.14288/hfjc.v14i3.555

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