Our research

Together, we focus on three key research areas, with the first serving as the foundation for the others.

Ergonomics and equipment optimisation
We explore the athlete-device-environment interface, fine-tuning equipment to, for example, minimise strain and pressure sores. Monitoring tools such as smartphones, apps and wearables will play a key role in tracking real-time data on the biomechanics, pressure and surface contact distribution and movement patterns for personalised adjustments to equipment and training routines.

Health and wellbeing
We investigate how stress impacts both physical and mental health, equipment use and ergonomics - acknowledging that certain issues occur only under stress. We also examine risk factors for poor bone health and interventions to improve bone health markers across different impairments.

Female athlete development
We are developing strategies with female Para athletes to enhance their performance, particularly examining:

• gender-specific equipment and apparel challenges
• training regimes and the female athlete’s triad in Para athletes

_{Banner images used courtesy of David Baird.}