Research

Engaging in regular, moderate-intensity physical activity has been consistently demonstrated to extend lifespan; reduce risk for various diseases and chronic conditions including heart disease, cancer, type-II diabetes, and osteoporosis, among others; and improve psychological health along such dimensions as depression and anxiety reduction, cognitive function, and quality of life.

Naturally, most Americans are therefore physically active enough to maximize these health benefits.*

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Sadly, the asterisked statement is only wishful thinking. Despite widespread knowledge that being more physically active is beneficial to many aspects of human existence, the majority of Americans simply do not move enough.

My research seeks to identify strategies to increase physical activity involvement in people of all walks of life to improve health and well-being throughout the lifespan, with particular interest in the psychosocial determinants and consequences of physical activity participation. I seek the answers to these questions, among others: Can we identify and then manipulate certain psychosocial factors to increase exercise adoption and adherence? Why do some people place more or less emphasis on physical health and activity than others? What are the psychosocial consequences of varying levels of physical activity participation? What methods do people use to age successfully, and how do these strategies change across the lifespan?

ACTIVE PROJECTS:

Stair Well: A Worksite Physical Activity Promotion Project: A study examining the effect of novel visual stimuli (i.e., framed photographs and motivational signage) on stair-climbing versus elevator use.

Psychosocial Aspects of Ultramarathon Performance: Multi-method study examining psychological well-being among ultra runners and affective changes associated with participation in endurance running events longer than the standard 26.2-mile marathon distance.

Students interested in arranging an Independent Study should email me to set up a meeting.