Sports Nutrition For Competitive Athletes: Ergogenic Aids To Elevate Performance
The The Sportz Planet SportSci Summit Season 2 is all set to take place in Bengaluru on November 21, 2024 at the Radisson Blu – Atria with one of the panel discussions revolving around one of the most essential ingredients of athletic performance which is “Sports Nutrition for Competitive Athletes: Ergogenic Aids To Elevate Performance.” This session promises insights into how nutritional strategies and supplements can underpin elite athletes in rising to their best potential. The Expert Panel – Sports Nutrition For Competitive Athletes: Ergogenic Aids To Elevate Performance This panel promises to bring together a host of respected authorities in the fields of sports performance and nutrition. Renowned sports dietitian, Geetha Ghaliyavar has a PGDiploma in Sports Nutrition. She also is a member of IOC and she would be throwing some insights on the science of nutrition as applied to optimization of performance per se, especially utilizing ergogenic aids. Abhinav Manathanath is the Head of Performance at the Prakash Padukone Badminton Academy (PPBA), one of India’s topmost and most demanding sports academies. He would be talking on how sports nutrition could make a difference in the performance of athletes in the arena of badminton. Manathanath’s wealth of experience with the mental and physical demands that elite athletes experience makes his insights priceless. Arjun Halappa is a former Indian Hockey Captain, Olympian and Joint Director at the Lakshyan Academy Of Sports He shall be able to draw from his experiences competing at an elite international level and his understandings about the importance of nutrition and supplements in their athlete’s regimen shall prove useful. The discussion will be moderated by Shreya Adhav, the founder, CEO and chief sports nutritionist at the SpirEat Sports Nutrition Clinic. As a leading voice in the sports nutrition industry, Shreya will ensure that all things regarding how athletes can use nutrition as a tool to make them better is anchored right throughout the discussion. Points To Be Covered 1. A comprehensive overview of how macronutrients, micronutrients, fluid and timing influence athletic performance.2. Science on supplements that enhance endurance, improve strength and accelerate recovery-from creatine to caffeine.3. Why one-size-fits-all models apply only to athletes, not people and why individualized nutrition produces better results.4. A balanced look in supplementation whereby an athlete trains according to safe and ethical means with respect to achieving performance gain without jeopardizing long-term health.5. How perfect nutrition planning can assist not only in performance but also in reducing the chances of injury with quicker recovery after competition. What To Expect? The Sportz Planet SportSci Summit Season 2 promises to be an invaluable learning experience for coaches, athletes, sports enthusiasts and anyone interested in the science of performance nutrition. The participants will not only be able to optimize their approach to diet and supplementation but also be in the best possible shape to train and compete. All professionals in the sports, fitness and wellness sectors will be brought together at The Sportz Planet SportSci Summit. Hence, this is an excellent opportunity for those interactions and learning events with the best professionals in the industry. Don’t miss this exciting panel discussion that will add to your knowledge and expertise on sports nutrition and ergogenic aids in competitive sports contexts. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Building Future Champions: Integrating Sports Science Into Grassroots Level Sports
Sports world is undergoing change at a level never seen before and among the key catalysts of this change, the employment of sports science is the most crucial. However, with more attention towards holistic development of athletes at grass-root levels, the importance lies in the very real value of sports science at the grass-root levels. How do we build future champions by integrating sports science into grassroots sports? It’s being discussed at The Sportz Planet – SportSci Summit Season 2 on November 21st, 2024, at the Radisson Blu – Atria, Bengaluru by industry experts. The discussion will cover all aspects through which sports science may take on the challenge of revolutionizing training, injury prevention, and performance enhancement from the grassroots level of athlete development. It will show how, at the right kind of intervention, with data-driven insights and scientific principles, a difference can be made in shaping the athletes of tomorrow. The Expert Panel – Building Future Champions: Integrating Sports Science Into Grassroots Level Sports The panel will be constituted of all kinds of sports professionals with high professional experience and knowledge about the topic of discussion. Dr. (Maj) Ameya Kagali is an International classifier for Wheelchair & Amputee Sport and was the Chief Team Physician for the Paris Paralympics 2024. Dr. Kagali’s field of specialization is the convergence of medical and sports science. His message will focus on how sports science, mostly in adaptive sports, can catalyze tapping into opportunities for and empowering the handicapped athlete right from the grassroot level. Antony Chacko is the Director at Center for Sports Science, Bangalore. Antony has worked in close association with various government and private institutions for the advancement of the application of sports science in India. Being an expert in the area of youth empowerment and sports, Antony would speak on the critical need for science-based principles forming training systems for young athletes and how that aligns with government initiatives. Saumil Majmudar is the co-founder, CEO & MD of Sportz Village, which is one of India’s grassroots sports development pioneers. Majmudar has rich experience in scaling sports programs all over India. He would talk about how Sportz Village has been working on mainstreaming sports science into schools and local academies and the role technology and data can play in identifying and nurturing young talent. Dr. Siddharth Sakalle is one of the most promising physiotherapists, with wide experience in high-performance sports, working with Olympic medalists to top athletes and many more. Dr. Sakalle will help understand the relevance of injury prevention and rehabilitation strategies, especially grassroot levels and how physiotherapy works for long-term athlete development. Vijay Krishnamurthy would be moderating the panel. Mr. Krishnamurthy is a sports researcher and executive coach with a PhD. He shall guide the panel through probing questions on how to make the science of sports more accessible, effective and increasingly integrated within the grass-root sports ecosystem. Issues To Be Discussed In The Panel There are many relevant issues to discuss with the panel to address about integration of sports science at the grassroots level. 1. Overcoming Barriers through Adaptive Sports Science2. Infrastructure and Ecosystem Building3. Data Driven Decision Making4. Injury Prevention and Physiotherapy5. Government and Private Sector Participation6. Mental Health and Psychological Support The Need for Sports Science at the GrassRoots Level The history of sports science portrays very little for India, with all its trends and tradition, mainly for elite athletes and their professional sports teams. The approach towards increasing this at grassroots levels by making them learn these values of good coaching may be seen as the turning point and resultant high-performing athletes. A scientific approach might just open new avenues in enhancing the regimen for training, nutrition, psychological readiness and recovery at the grassroots level where emphasis is primarily on physical and mental development among young athletes. With biomechanics fine-tuning techniques or nutrition strategies to fuel young bodies or perhaps, data analytics to follow progress, a sports science approach has the potential to revolutionarily transform the process of athlete development from the grassroots level. Future of Sports in India At the grassroots level, India would have to develop an integrated approach to make a sustainable and competitive sporting culture. India could help athletes reach their potential in a healthy, sustainable, and scientifically sound manner by embedding sports science into grassroots programs. It will be an important forum through which these themes will be explored and shared among people working on the ground to shape the future of sports. The knowledge shared during this panel discussion will help pave the way for a more scientifically informed, efficient and inclusive sporting ecosystem in India, ultimately fostering the champions of tomorrow. Such a panel, steeped in experience and passion to nurture sports science in India, will provide great insights in the development of grassroots sports towards a more scientifically sophisticated and competitive playing field leading India’s future sporting successes. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Speaker Lineup For SportSci Summit Season 2
The Sportz Planet is pleased to announce the SportSci Summit Season 2, which is scheduled to take place on November 21st, 2024 at the Radisson Blu – Atria, Bengaluru. Expect this much-talked-about event to bring forth riches in knowledge and networking value for enthusiasts, professionals and academics alike. The second season of the SportSci Summit will feature some of the very best in an elite lineup of speakers bringing to the field of sports science and medicine a unique and personal expertise. Dr. Harini Priyadarshini Among them is Dr Harini Priyadarshini, Team Manager and Team Doctor for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) Women in WPL. With her wide range of experiences from being the founder and co-director of The Performance Doctor to Vice-President of The SES Network, Dr. Priyadarshini is going to add her value to the knowledge sharing process in performance optimization in women’s sports. Dr. Bharath Kumar B Dr. Bharath Kumar B is a sports medicine physician and founder of Ziathlon, as well as the Team Doctor for Delhi FC and Minerva Football Academy. Dr. Bharath has extensive experience in sports integrity having earlier served as a Doping Control Officer for ICC, BCCI, and Hockey India. Antony Chacko Antony Chacko, Director at the Department of Youth Empowerment & Sports, Karnataka, will be briefing on youth development and sports science and will also lay stress on the development of future talent. Dr. Marcus Ranney Dr. Marcus Ranney, an acknowledged Longevity Physician and founder of Human Edge, will speak about the challenges that those in high performance face and how sports science can support and enhance their resilience and longevity. Dr. (Maj) Ameya Kagali Dr. (Maj) Ameya Kagali is the Chief Team Physician for Indian Paralympic teams. He will speak on sports medicine from a critical perspective, especially for athletes with disabilities, communicating his experiences from events such as Tokyo Paralympics and Paris 2024 Games. Prajwal Bhat Understand the methods of physical training that push stars to victory from Olympic Gold Quest Strength & Conditioning Coach and former S&C Coach for FC Bengaluru Prajwal Bhat. Priyanka Prabhakar Get familiarized with the mental dimensions of performance by Sport Psychologist adjunct faculty IIT-Madras & Jain (Deemed to be) University Priyanka Prabhakar, who draws upon her experience as a former psychologist for Indian Hockey team and SAI Vijay Krishnamurthy Last but not the least, Dr. Vijay Krishnamurthy, Ph.D. Sports Researcher and PCC Executive Coach would expound on research and practical coaching methodologies for bolstering athletes’ higher performance and coaching effectiveness with data-driven methods. More than just talks, the SportSci Summit Season 2 gives you an opportunity to interact with thought leaders and practitioners of sports science. It presents a chance to create space for ideas to flow out, collaborate and network to shape the future of sports in India. Get ready to learn from the industry’s best. The SportSci Summit Season 2 is going to be a highly inspiring event. Mark your dates for November 21st in Bengaluru for SportSci Summit Season 2. We look forward to meeting you there. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
The Sportz Planet, SportSci Summit – S2 To Take Place In Bengaluru
Bengaluru, India – 13th August 2024 – Namaskara Bengaluru! The Sportz Planet is excited to announce the most awaited Season 2 of SportSci Summit, scheduled to be held in Bengaluru on November 21, 2024. This marquee event will bring together some of the finest professionals, researchers, coaches, and those with a passion for sports science who are at the forefront of optimizing athlete performance, health and safety through discussions on new trends and best practices in sports science. The SportSci Summit is the place to be for enriching insights, improving understanding and application within the sporting community. Such a diverse range of topics will be covered: sports psychology, biomechanics, nutrition, sports wearables and rehabilitation strategies. The Season 2 of the SportSci Summit is going to host over 30 C-level speakers, including highly respected team doctors, physiotherapists, psychologists, nutritionists, dietitians, biomechanists, data analysts, strength and conditioning coaches and experts in sports. These thought leaders will be sharing their valuable insights and the latest research on critical topics such as- Data Analysis in Team SportsThe Role of Monitoring in Injury RehabilitationSports IntegrityWearables in Sports PerformanceNutrition in Weight Category SportsSports Cardiology The Sportz Planet – SportSci Summit, Season 2 also offers an excellent opportunity for networking. It provides a platform for developing valuable connections among industry experts and peers right across the sports science spectrum. About The Sportz Planet Established and conceptualized by its parent company, 1Connect Events and Publishing Ltd, The Sportz Planet, spearheaded by Mr. Rishi Sutrave, serves as a comprehensive hub for sports enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of content. We proudly identify as the ultimate destination for all things sports-related. Our platform delivers valuable insights, news updates, interviews on sports connecting to our four pillars – Science, Technology, Nutrition and Business. For further information, please visit: <https://thesportzplanet.com/sportsci-summit-2024/#overview>. Team Sportz Planet.
SportSci Summit 2024: Dr. Patil On Importance Of Supplementation
The recent The Sportz Planet- SportSci Summit 2024, Season 1, at Radisson Blu, Mumbai International Airport was a remarkable gathering of renowned experts and speakers. The galaxy of experts came together to discuss various facets of sports science, technology, nutrition, psychology, and biomechanics. This summit served as a vital platform for sharing innovative knowledge and practices aimed at enhancing athletic performance and overall well-being. Dr. Amol Patil – A Force To Be Reckoned With One of the key speakers at the summit was Dr. Amol Patil, a distinguished Sports Physician and Wellness Consultant. He is also the Director of Sports Education at Activ Insight and the Executive Director of Sportz Next and Global Soccer Conclave. Dr. Patil’s extensive experience in sports medicine and his commitment to athlete wellness made his insights particularly valuable to the attendees. In his session, Dr. Patil focused on:– Nutrition: The critical aspect of providing the right nutrients to athletes.– Supplementation: The careful prescription of supplements. He emphasized the importance of moderation and the potential risks associated with over-supplementation: “You just have to ensure one thing, that you are not giving too much. Because giving something is better, supplementation is better, but make sure you are not prescribing it too much,” he advised. Tailored Supplementation Plans Dr. Patil elaborated on the importance of tailored supplementation plans and the necessity of regular follow-ups:“Let’s say prescribing vitamin D for 6 weeks or for 8 weeks, it’s okay. But don’t prescribe it for a year and without follow up you just tell him that way. A frequent follow up is essential at least if he cannot afford to go for a test, at least he can come back to you for a follow up, which in turn means a lot,” he explained. Key Takeaways Moderation in Supplementation While supplements can be beneficial, they must be administered judiciously and with continuous monitoring. Risk of Over-Supplementation Excessive supplementation can lead to adverse health effects and negate the benefits of a well-balanced diet. Personalized and Monitored Nutritional Strategies Athletes need tailored and monitored nutritional strategies to optimize performance and well-being. The Sportz Planet- SportSci Summit 2024, Season 1 highlighted the interconnected nature of sports science disciplines and the importance of an integrated approach to athlete health. Dr. Patil’s insights on nutrition and supplementation provided valuable guidance for coaches, athletes, and healthcare professionals, reinforcing the need for personalized and monitored nutritional strategies. Dr. Amol Patil’s contributions, particularly his focus on the prudent use of supplements, will undoubtedly influence future practices in sports nutrition and athlete care. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
SportSci Summit 2024: Anuja Patel On How Micro-Nutrition Is A Key To Tailored Athletic Performance
The Sportz Planet–SportSci Summit 2024, held at the Radisson Blu, Mumbai International Airport, was a landmark event bringing together leading experts to advance the understanding of sports science. Among the distinguished speakers was Anuja Patel, co-founder of Nutrigetic Wellness, a Performance Nutrition Consultant, and a respected faculty member at various sports organizations. Her insights into nutrition have significantly contributed to the field, particularly her discussion on the concept of Micro-Nutrition. Anuja Patel: A Leading Voice in Sports Nutrition Anuja Patel’s extensive experience in sports nutrition has positioned her as a key influencer in the industry. At the summit, she delved into the nuances of nutritional strategies tailored for athletes. Her expertise encompasses working with diverse sports organizations, where she emphasizes the importance of customized nutrition plans. Patel’s focus on Micro-Nutrition is particularly noteworthy, as it underscores the need for detailed attention to dietary components to enhance athletic performance. Understanding Micro-Nutrition Micro-Nutrition refers to the precise intake of vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients required by the body in small quantities. Unlike macronutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, which are needed in larger amounts, micronutrients play a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including energy production, immune function, and bone health. Ensuring adequate intake of these nutrients is vital for overall health and optimal athletic performance. Micro-Nutrition: Tailoring Nutrition for Different Sports The nutritional needs of athletes vary significantly depending on the sport they participate in. For instance, endurance athletes, such as marathon runners or cyclists, require a higher intake of iron to support oxygen transport and energy production. In contrast, strength athletes, such as weightlifters, need increased levels of protein and certain vitamins like B12 to aid in muscle repair and growth. Additionally, sports like gymnastics or figure skating, which emphasize lean body composition, require careful management of micronutrient intake to ensure athletes maintain strength and energy without unnecessary weight gain. This precision in nutritional planning highlights the importance of Micro-Nutrition in addressing the unique demands of each sport. Micro-Nutrition Across Different Age Groups Age is another critical factor in determining nutritional needs. Young athletes, still in their growth phases, require higher amounts of calcium and vitamin D for bone development, along with adequate iron to support rapid growth and increased physical activity. In contrast, older athletes may need more antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, to combat oxidative stress and support recovery. For middle-aged athletes, maintaining muscle mass and preventing age-related decline becomes crucial. This group benefits from increased intake of protein and vitamin D, along with micronutrients like magnesium and zinc, which support muscle function and recovery. The Sportz Planet–SportSci Summit 2024 highlighted the importance of advancing sports science to enhance athletic performance and overall health. Ms. Anuja Patel’s insights into Micro-Nutrition provided valuable perspectives on how detailed and sport-specific nutritional strategies can significantly impact athletes’ performance and well-being. The Sportz Planet,Atharva Shetye
SportSci Summit 2024: Mental Fitness Takes The Center Stage As Mugdha Bavare Addresses The Audience
The recent The Sportz Planet– SportSci Summit 2024, Season 1 held at Radisson Blu, Mumbai International Airport, served as a beacon for advancing the understanding of sports science, particularly diving into the crucial yet often neglected realm of mental fitness in athletics. Among the distinguished speakers, Ms. Mugdha Bavare, a Counseling & Sports Psychologist and Founder of Mindsports, illuminated the audience with profound insights into the mental aspects of sports performance. Ms. Bavare’s session resonated deeply with attendees as she underscored the critical role of mental training in athletic success. “The way we train ourselves, what I call it as training our body in all aspects, in terms of fitness, in terms of skills, in terms of diet, but do we take care of our mind?” she provocatively questioned, highlighting a pervasive gap in traditional sports preparation. Her observation continued to resonate: “If there is a question mark and a self-doubt, that will pull back the performance.” This statement encapsulates the profound impact of mental state on athletic achievement, emphasizing how doubts and uncertainties can manifest as tangible obstacles in the pursuit of peak performance. Sports Psychology: Empowering Athletes Beyond Physical Limits Sports psychology, a field dedicated to understanding and optimizing mental factors that influence sports performance, plays a pivotal role in bridging this gap. It encompasses a range of techniques and practices designed to enhance mental resilience, focus, and overall well-being among athletes. Central to sports psychology is the cultivation of mental skills such as goal setting, visualization, concentration, and relaxation techniques. These tools not only prepare athletes to cope with pressure and adversity but also enable them to perform consistently at their best. Sports psychologists like Ms. Bavare specialize in addressing the unique psychological challenges faced by athletes. They provide invaluable support in managing performance anxiety, building confidence, and maintaining motivation throughout rigorous training regimens and competitive seasons. The Impact and Evolution of Mental Fitness in Modern Sports In contemporary sports, where physical prowess alone often falls short of guaranteeing success, the integration of mental fitness has emerged as a game-changer. Athletes and coaches alike are increasingly recognizing that a strong mind is as crucial as a strong body in achieving and sustaining excellence. By prioritizing mental health and employing insights from sports psychology, athletes can unlock their full potential, turning moments of doubt into opportunities for growth and resilience. As Ms. Bavare’s session at The Sportz Planet – SportSci Summit 2024 illuminated, the journey to athletic greatness begins not only on the field but also in the mind. In conclusion, the insightful discussion on mental fitness at The Sportz Planet- SportSci Summit 2024, Season 1 highlights a big change in how we train athletes. It emphasizes a holistic approach that recognizes how closely our minds and bodies work together. This shift paves the way for a new era where mental toughness becomes crucial for athletic success. As sports communities adopt these ideas, we’re not just looking at athletes who are physically strong. We’re talking about champions who are mentally tough, ready to overcome any obstacle in their path. This approach ensures that athletes are well-prepared not only physically but also mentally, setting them up for greatness in sports and in life. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
The Making Of Hitman. Ft – Shri Dinesh Lad & Rohit Sharma
Rohit Sharma, the Indian cricket captain, has had a remarkable journey filled with ups and downs. His path to success was paved with challenges, however the support and mentorship of Shri Dinesh Lad played a crucial role in shaping him into the cricketing icon he is today. Let’s relive this mesmerizing journey of a mentor and his apprentice. Early Days and Initial Struggles In 1985, Shri Dinesh Lad became associated with Swami Vivekanand International School in Borivali, Gorai. The school had no proper ground but that didn’t deter Mr. Lad from nurturing young talent. A pivotal moment came when his son, Siddhesh, joined the school in 1995. Siddhesh’s enthusiasm caught the school owner’s attention, leading to a conversation that set the stage for Mr. Lad’s cricket coaching journey at the school. Also read: The making of the Dronacharya – Ft. Shri Dinesh Lad. Mr. Lad’s first year at the school saw their team suffer a heavy defeat, however his determination to build a strong team never wavered. Soon after the defeat, he organized a camp in Borivali, leading to the discovery of a young boy with remarkable bowling talent named Rohit Sharma. Despite financial constraints, Mr. Lad ensured Rohit could join the school, recognizing his potential. Recognizing and Nurturing Talent Initially promoted as a bowler, Rohit soon showcased his exceptional batting skills during school practice sessions. Mr. Lad quickly adjusted his coaching focus, emphasizing Rohit’s batting abilities. This decision proved pivotal as Rohit excelled in batting, eventually rising through the ranks in the under-14 and under-16 teams. In today’s date there is no batter in international cricket who can time the ball better than Rohit Sharma. Mr. Lad’s coaching philosophy centered on recognizing and nurturing natural talent. He believed in guiding players without forcing them into specific roles, a principle that significantly contributed to Rohit’s development as a cricketer. Overcoming Challenges and Setbacks Rohit Sharma’s journey wasn’t without setbacks. In 2007, he made his debut for India, but his performance fluctuated. From 2009 to 2011, his form declined, culminating in his exclusion from the 2011 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup squad. This period was marked by low scores and a loss of focus on cricket. Deeply affected, Rohit turned to his coach, Mr. Lad for guidance. Mr. Lad, recognizing the need for psychological support, referred him to Dr. Mugdha Bavare, a sports psychologist. This intervention proved crucial in helping Rohit regain his focus and commitment to the sport. The Road to Redemption Post-2011, Rohit’s dedication to cricket intensified. He diligently practiced, focusing on fitness, catching, and honing his skills. Mr. Lad’s mentorship and psychological support played a vital role in this transformation. Rohit’s performance improved significantly, and he consistently remained at the top, never looking back. The Importance of Focus and Dedication Rohit’s journey underscores the importance of focus and dedication in achieving success. Shri Dinesh Lad’s role as a mentor was instrumental in guiding Rohit through his highs and lows. Mr. Lad’s belief in nurturing natural talent, combined with his emphasis on fitness and mental resilience, helped Rohit overcome numerous challenges. A Coach’s Pride From recognizing Rohit’s talent at a young age to guiding him through difficult times, Mr. Lad’s mentorship has been a cornerstone of Rohit’s cricketing journey. His belief in Rohit’s potential, even during the toughest times, was a testament to his dedication as a coach. Rohit Sharma’s journey from a young boy with potential to the captain of the Indian cricket team is a story of resilience, hard work, and the transformative power of mentorship. Shri Dinesh Lad’s guidance and unwavering support helped Rohit navigate the highs and lows of his career, ultimately shaping him into one of cricket’s most celebrated players. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
SportSci Summit 2024: Discussing Wearables Ke ‘Correct’ Effects
Sports have changed in the 21st century, not only in terms of skill but also in technology. At the SportSci Summit 2024, one of the topics of discussion was integrating wearables for peak performance in elite sports. For the record, wearable technology is a technology that is designed to be used while worn. Some common examples are smartwatches and smart glasses. The SportSci Summit 2024 Season 1 consisted of a detailed discussion on Integrating wearables for peak performance in elite sports. The discussion panel included: The discussion was moderated by Sandesh Rangnekar, SNC coach for the Dabang Delhi Kabaddi Club. The panel put forward their point of view on wearable technology in sports. Tanuja Lele opined that wearable technology isn’t there to replace the current coaching methods. At the same time, Dr. Rizwan Khan said that despite the advancements in technology, sports concussion is still difficult to diagnose. The modern-day athletes too are conscious and know that they are being monitored every step of the way, says Dr. Tvisha Parikh. On the other end, Dr. Anup Krishnan thinks that the devices should not carry the terms to dictate an athlete, while he has no problem with the latter using it. While technology is here to stay, SNC coach Tanuja Lele believes that a coach should understand and draw the line between the usage of technology and pushing the athletes. She thinks that over exposure to technology can be injurious to the coaching methods and in turn, can hamper an athlete’s progress. Also Read: SportSci Summit 2024: Importance of nutrition in sports
SportSci Summit 2024: ACL Injury – What’s the way back for athletes?
There was a buzz among the delegates and also the speakers when the panel discussion on ACL injury was announced at the SportSci Summit 2024. The organizers saved the best topic for the last, as the audience woke up from slumber to hear what was in store. Some real heavyweights were lined up as experts for the discussion. Meet the Panelists It was a 4-panel discussion to go along with Dr. Vijay Bathina as the moderator. Everything about the ACL was discussed. Right from the cause, the symptoms, the healing, the recovery, and even the treatment. The experts shared their knowledge with the delegates, much to the delight of the audience inside the auditorium. ACL Injury: What are the common causes? The experts, Dr Poornima in particular shed light on the common causes and mechanisms of ACL injuries in athletes. Anterior Cruciate Ligament or ACL in general in athletes is caused due to sudden pivoting, landing, or overextending of the joint due to sporting activity. While the ACL injury is common in soccer, Dr Poornima also gave suitable examples of other sports where this injury is quite prevalent, like basketball and football. Gender Bias in ACL? Do male athletes take more time to recover? Are female athletes susceptible to the ACL? According to Dr. Aditya Sood, a female athlete might take more time to recover. This is because a woman has a thinner ACL tissue, making it easier to tear. An ACL injury can occur due to many reasons but three common reasons are anatomy, biomechanics, and hormones in females. ACL Recovery – The Phases In ACL injury, the recovery happens in a total of five phases. As per Dr. Poornima, it takes a minimum of six to nine months for an athlete to return to the field. However, the final timeline depends on the extent of the injury. The recovery can be an extremely frustrating period for the athlete. Also, preoperative rehabilitation (prehab) massively influences the postoperative outcomes for ACL injuries. Key Indicators – the ACL surgery Yuvraj Salvi, the strength and conditioning coach with the DDCA, BCCI has seen enough cricketers breaking down due to ACL injuries. This includes fast bowlers in particular. He explained to the audience, the pre-indicators depicting when an athlete is ready for ACL surgery. Some of the indicators are demographics, pain, effusion, knee extension, muscle strength, and more. As per Salvi, any change in the athlete’s plan is just to check whether everything is going smoothly. Current Advancements and Rehab Protocols According to Dr. Aditya Sood, sports are played physically but won mentally. And for sports athletes to win the battle against ACL surgery, they need to follow the right protocols to get back to the field, after regaining full fitness. While he agreed that there is a potential risk with every ACL injury, there are several performance tests in place to assess whether the player is fit enough to play again. He also shed light on strategies that are involved in preventing secondary ACL injuries. Lack of proper nutrition in young athletes is also a major reason behind the rise in the number of ACL injuries. However, the one effective way to prevent reinjury post-ACL reconstruction is effective load management. The increase in several matches, tight scheduling, poor health, and training from a young age, are prime reasons behind athletes picking up ACL injuries. With proper guidance, precaution, and knowledge transfer, an athlete can go on to avoid career-threatening ACL injuries. Also Read: Enhance Athletic Performance – experts show the way