Human Performance Science Group's research
An outline of the Group's research themes and examples of projects.
Research themes
Our inter-disciplinary approaches are reflected in the wide range of populations that we engage with for research and knowledge exchange projects:
- aquatics research to improve performance and rehabilitation
- developing cognitive expertise - optimising training and performance
- performance and development in motor sport
- dance and performance
Key projects
A comprehensive study, funded by the International Olympic Committee, to examine Olympian health during and after their sporting careers will provide insights that could benefit health outcomes across elite sports.
Aquatic exercise therapy is used for chronic low back pain (CLBP) treatment and management. However, there are currently no data comparing muscle activity between different aquatic exercises performed by people with CLBP. We assessed and compared muscle activity, pain, perceived exertion and exercise intensity, between different rehabilitative aquatic exercises.
The ‘Haptic Experiments’ project explored how blind dance audience members can use their hands to experience the dynamic qualities of live dance performances through their sense of touch.
This report highlights the crucial role of Scene Examination within the Forensic Services offered by the Scottish Police Authority, and the importance of Professional Judgement and Decision Making expertise within a skilled workforce.
Learn more about the Crime Scene Examination project and read the report
This project investigated the use and role of instruction by athletics coaches (field events) in real-world, high-level competitive settings.