Physical activity, health and wellbeing
The research on this strategic core field uses both qualitative and quantitative techniques to identify and understand the multifaceted nature of concepts such as health and wellness, and how to advance them. These issues are vital in an ageing society that is plagued by more prevalent physical inactivity and increased incidence of chronic diseases. We embrace digitalisation by constantly updating our methods, and we use modern techniques such as AI to innovate in the field. In addition to new technological solutions, our innovative research materials provide a basis for interdisciplinary cooperation.
The Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences provides a unique research environment for examining the connections between physical activity and health, from cellular and molecular mechanisms to the performance and functional capacity in people of different ages, along with health behaviours in various population groups. We specialise in the measurement and analysis of physical activity, body movements, motor skills and exercise in different environments. This work includes the development of measurement methods and devices.
Our goal is to promote health and exercise for all. We are experts in measuring performance and functional capacity as well as physical activity and exercise among different age and population groups, while simultaneously focusing on the development of measurement methods and equipment. Our research also seeks to improve the conditions for increasing physical exercise and acquiring exercise skills.
Most recently, we have begun developing methods for citizen science which can be used in the collection of data on the lifestyles, environment, and performance and functional capacity of people in their own surroundings. Moreover, our research addresses the challenges of demographic change, which is increasing the need for knowledge of health and physical exercise, especially in supporting the well-being of the ageing population.
Collaboration
We collaborate with psychology, social sciences, education, economics and biology to enable the comprehensive study and promotion of the various dimensions of well-being. In addition to universities, we work closely with businesses and other stakeholders, such as well-being services counties, hospitals, sports clubs, and third sector organisations.
We actively participate in collaborative funding proposals, and have worked with companies and other organisations successfully in projects funded by Business Finland, the EU and other investors.
