About
Research
Biography
I have studied at St Mary’s from 2015 where I have completed my Sport Science undergraduate and then my Masters of Research where I began to specialise in sport biomechanics. My academic interests are biomechanics and I am now beginning to cross disciplines to look at behavioural theories in psychology and the links with biomechanics.
Research
Research profile
PhD Title:
The effectiveness of an intervention on increasing overweight and obese children’s motivation towards physical activity: A Self-determination theory approach
Childhood obesity is increasing in our modern society with children also becoming less active. My MRes research was looking at the effectiveness of a strength intervention on overweight and obese (OWB) children.
This research lead me to my new aim which is to try to increase OWB children’s motivation towards physical activity, to reduce the biomechanical effects of obesity and aim to make long term behavioural changes.
If my intervention is effective there is scope for it to be implemented in primary schools where there are high levels of obesity. By aiming for behavioural changes in children, it provides them with the autonomy to have a physically active lifestyle through their own choices.
Supervisors:
- Ryan Mahaffey
- Mark Glaister
- Emily Martin
Publications and Presentations:
- UK and Ireland Children's Motor Competence Network Meeting
I presented some findings from my MRes research: Social validation response and effectiveness of an 8-week strength training intervention on quality of life and physical function in 7-11 year old overweight and obese children.