Scientists have identified potential modifications to football design that could reduce the impact on players' brains when heading the ball, according to new research findings. The study discovered that heading a football creates a previously unreported pressure wave energy transfer to the brain, providing new insights into the mechanism of potential head injuries in the sport.

The research comes as concerns about head injuries in football continue to grow, with ongoing debates about the long-term effects of repeated heading on player health. The findings suggest that engineering changes to ball construction could help mitigate these risks without fundamentally altering the game.

Separately, Members of Parliament have received recommendations aimed at increasing youth participation in sports and physical activity across England. A new report has identified barriers that prevent children from engaging in exercise, including the presence of 'no ball games' signs in public spaces.

The parliamentary report suggests making Physical Education a core subject in schools as part of efforts to boost activity levels among young people. The recommendations reflect growing concerns about declining fitness levels and sedentary lifestyles among children in England.

Both developments highlight ongoing efforts to balance sports participation with safety considerations, as authorities seek ways to encourage physical activity while addressing health risks associated with certain sporting activities.