Health and Elite Sport

Health and Elite Sport is the first book to critically examine the relationship between participation in high performance sport and health outcomes. Drawing on theory and empirical data from a wide range of disciplines, including sociology, developmental psychology, epidemiology, and physical education, the book explores the benefits and detriments of participation in elite sport for both individuals (athletes, coaches, spectators) and communities.

Written by a team of leading international sport researchers, the book examines key issues including:

• Talent identification and young athletes
• Abuse in sport
• Positive youth development through sport
• Athlete health in periods of transition
• Health, sport and the family
• Health in professional sport
• The Olympics, Paralympics and public health
• Long term effects of participation in elite sport