Life After Sport How Past Injuries and Sedentary Habits Affect Health and Function in Current and Former Collegiate Athletes and Non-Athletes

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying how past sports injuries and sedentary behavior may affect long-term health and physical function in current and former competitive athletes compared to non-athletes. This observational study focuses on adults aged 18 to 64, examining factors like strength, physical activity, diet, and cardiometabolic health to understand how prior knee injuries and inactivity might contribute to poorer health outcomes over time. Participants include young adults aged 18-25 who are current collegiate varsity athletes and midlife adults aged 40-64 who are former athletes with or without prior knee injuries, as well as non-athlete controls. The study compares these groups to assess differences in physical function, sedentary behavior, and health indicators. The research involves annual follow-ups to track changes in activity patterns, strength, and cardiometabolic health. During the study, participants undergo physical function tests such as the 30-Second Chair Stand, 6-Minute Walk, and Stair Climb tests, along with assessments of strength, body composition, step counts, and cardiovascular disease risk. Sedentary behavior and physical activity levels are measured at baseline and during follow-up visits roughly one year later. The study aims to better understand health trajectories in athletes and non-athletes over time, with participation lasting several years.

Life After Sport: Prior Injury and Sedentary Behavior as Mechanisms of Later Poor Health