Topics researched in children's and youth triathlon: A systematic review.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55040/mc67ft02Keywords:
triathlon, children, adolescentsAbstract
Given the increase in mass sporting events for children and youth, it is necessary to recognize the implications for educational processes in sports. The objective of this study was to identify and critically analyze the main themes addressed in the scientific literature on triathlon in children and young people. Publications that considered triathlon in children and youth, using the PRISMA methodology, were identified in three databases: Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science (WOS). The years considered were between 1998 and 2023. The search criteria were: "triathlon and child; triathlon and children; triathlon and childhood"; contained in the title and/or abstract. Authors, country, year of publication, journal, total and specific sample for the sport in question, objectives, conclusion, and type of research were considered in this investigation. A total of 130 articles were identified in the three databases consulted. Of these, 10 met the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were therefore selected for in-depth analysis. Data collection was conducted using a qualitative approach. The selected studies addressed diverse topics, with particular emphasis on nutritional aspects, water consumption, physiological response to exercise, injury prevention, motivational factors, maturation processes, athletic performance, as well as the role of parents and coaches, and substance use. Most of the research was conducted in European countries, while evidence from Latin American contexts was scarce. The review showed that triathlon in children and adolescents has been addressed primarily from physiological, nutritional, psychological, and safety perspectives, although with limited representation in Latin American contexts. The need for a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach that promotes safe athletic development adapted to the stages of growth is highlighted.
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