Human performance and sports medicine lab
Human performance and sports medicine research
Our human performance and sports medicine lab investigate how exercise, nutrition, supplementation and training affect health, performance and recovery across the lifespan. Faculty and students study topics including body composition, metabolic health, strength, injury, women’s health and physiological responses to exercise.
Through hands-on research, the labs provide students with opportunities to contribute to studies while generating evidence that can inform athletic performance, clinical practice and lifelong health.
Human Performance Laboratory
The Human Performance Laboratory advances understanding of how nutrition, supplementation and exercise influence health, physiology and performance in women across the lifespan. The lab uses evidence-based assessment and targeted interventions to study body composition, metabolic health, strength and functional performance in athletic, clinical and general populations.
Research focus
- Resistance training, nutrition and supplementation effects on musculoskeletal health, body composition and metabolic health
- Menstrual cycle, hormonal fluctuations and perimenopause effects on metabolism, performance and recovery
- Exercise and nutrition interventions related to aging, muscle wasting and functional independence in women
Current and recent work
- Physical and physiological health profile of premenopausal females
- Impact of creatine and resistance training on perimenopausal symptoms
Student research opportunities
Undergraduate and graduate students can assist with participant testing, data collection and analysis, nutritional assessments and exercise or supplementation protocols. Students may also contribute to manuscripts, conference presentations and independent research projects that prepare them for health, fitness, nutrition and graduate or professional programs.
Community services and participation
Women from the community may be able to participate in research studies involving nutrition, supplementation, exercise and overall health. Depending on the study, participants may receive body composition analysis, strength testing and metabolic health evaluations while contributing to research on female physiology.
Partnerships and impact
Collaborators include COBRE on Women’s Nutrition and Health, Idaho INBRE, Washington State University Athletics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, University of South Carolina and Ohio State University.
Contact information
Location: Physical Education Building, Room 116
Contact: Ann Frost | afrost@uidaho.edu
Get involved in research and testing
Students can gain hands-on experience through research projects, laboratory testing and opportunities to work alongside faculty in human performance and sports medicine. Community members, athletes and organizations can also connect with the labs for research participation and available testing services, including body composition and fitness assessments. Contact the appropriate lab for current research opportunities, testing availability and participation information.