We're on a mission to revolutionise the women's sport ecosystem through cutting-edge research, innovation, and game-changing practice.

Introducing the Women in Sport Research Hub

Building on Loughborough’s world-leading reputation in sport, the Women in Sport Research and Innovation Hub unites experts from across the University, Loughborough Sport, and our global network of partners to create lasting change throughout the women’s sport landscape, at every level.

Our purpose is to be challenge-led, driving research through five cross-cutting Labs.

Health

Delivering transformational research that advances the health and wellbeing of athletes in performance and participation sport.

Lifecourse

Driving intersectional knowledge around critical lifecourse transitions to support elite athletes and exercising women.

Technologies

Accelerating cutting edge innovations in the inclusive design engineering of sports apparel, equipment and sport technologies.

Environments

Advancing research on the social landscape of women’s sport including economies, representations, governance and infrastructure.

Workforce

Developing research on the role of the voluntary and professional workforce in enhancing the delivery of women and girl’s sporting experiences.

Key research

We bring together multidisciplinary expertise with a strong focus on innovation and real-world impact. Working closely with athletes, coaches, policymakers, and industry leaders, we are shaping the future of women’s sport through cutting-edge research and collaboration.

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Loughborough appoints world-leading academic Professor Leanne Norman

Loughborough University has appointed Professor Leanne Norman to spearhead its ground-breaking Women in Sport Research and Innovation Hub.
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Study on online abuse of sportswomen looks at high profile case and calls for change

a female athlete running

Loughborough University academic co-authors landmark update on female athlete health

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Expert comment: disordered eating in athletes (video)

two female athletes compete for the ball in wheelchair rugby

Loughborough research leads to rule change in World Wheelchair Rugby

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Eating problems in athletes - improving sports professional’s recognition and management

Pregnant jogger

Supporting the development of athlete pregnancy guidance

A researcher testing the adidas Al Rihla Pro football

Revolutionising sports clothing and equipment – making them safer and more inclusive

Loughborough University staff team at the global observatory

Loughborough researchers make an impact at the Global Observatory for Gender Equality and Sport

Women in Sport and Exercise Academic Network Conference 2026

Strike with Purpose: Empowering Women's Health & Performance through Insight and Innovation

14 July 2026 to 15 July 2026

The Women in Sport and Exercise Academic Network (WiSEAN) Annual Conference 2026 will bring together students, researchers, local, regional, national and international partners, and it is a great chance to showcase your work, make new connections, and help the network to strike with purpose.

Booking information available soon.

Contact us

For more information about our research or collaboration opportunities