New Health and Fitness Research Unit Established

The Australian Institute of Fitness (AIF) has created a new health and fitness research division. AIF Research was established with a $210,000 research grant over three years at the University of the Sunshine Coast.
AIF Research aims to improve the health of Australians through an improved body of fitness knowledge for dissemination, training and implementation by the fitness industry.
To further develop fitness industry protocols that are safe and effective for the broader community this research will scientifically investigate the following themes:
⢠Measuring the long term benefits of popular fitness activities;
⢠Determining changes in physical characteristics from strength training in children, overweight individuals and older adults;
⢠Determining reliable and safe training and exercise prescription protocols;
⢠Providing some long term data on fitness participation and community benefits;
⢠Providing more definitive protocols for correct exercise techniques and movement patterns; and
⢠Providing more definitive information on sedentary death syndrome (SeDS) and the role of fitness activities in its reduction.
Australian Institute of Fitness Research has appointed Dr Mark McKean and Professor Brendan Burkett from USC as Chief Investigators.
As AIF Chief Executive Greg Hurst explains, âthis is another first for the Australian Institute of Fitness and we are delighted to be investing in the future of the fitness industry.
âThere is a lot of information out there but too much of it is contradictory (and) there are many practices and protocols in place but sometimes they are just historical and need to be challenged for efficacy.
âIn partnering with the University of the Sunshine Coast and experts like Mark McKean and Brendan Burkett, we can turn information into intelligence. This three year project will involve new research as well as the analysis of existing research.
âWhile $210,000 is a significant investment the scope of the project is broad and we hope to attract other partners willing to invest in a smarter, safer, more effective fitness industry.
Chief Investigator Mark McKean adds, âhaving been involved in the fitness industry at all levels for many years, I saw firsthand the need for a more scientific approach to industry practices. The partnership formed between the AIF and the University of the Sunshine Coast to establish the Australian Institute of Fitness Research will allow the development of a research program that is unique to the fitness industry and one that will support the industry in improving the health and well being of all Australians.�?
The conclusions and research results will be used by fitness professionals and other health and fitness bodies to provide a better level of service and sustainable results.