The University of Hertfordshire carries out research related to ‘keeping active’ in five key areas. The first of these is research into adaptive physiology and ways in which the body can be changed by external influences such as environmental change, changes in diet, or illness. This is extended into research into functional nutrition in particular investigating micro-nutrients on health benefits such as magnesium and polyphenols. The second area of work is applied coaching and leadership, in particular how high performance coaching can enable people to keep active, and a specific focus on female coaches and leaders to encourage more women and girls to participate in physical activity. The third research area considers functional therapy and biomechanics, specifically examining the mechanism of injury, treatment and rehabilitation of ankle sprains, with a view to reducing the incidence and recurrence of the injury to enable people to keep active. The fourth area of work is health and wellbeing, and colleagues are exploring the role of exercise within patient care, specifically related to Crohn’s Disease and Colitis, as well as the health benefits of outdoor activities, and safeguarding athletes. Finally, the Sport and Exercise Psychology Research Group investigates the psychological factors underpinning the performance and wellbeing of a range of population groups, for example athletes, coaches, mental health staff, and mental health service users, with a strong focus on practitioner development and well-being through keeping active.

Most of the information for the ‘keep active’ area can be found on the SHE research website. You can also find a list of SHE staff page, and you can access their publications and projects by clicking on their profiles.