Physical activity and health promotions lab
Physical activity and health promotion research
Our physical activity and health promotion lab investigate how physical activity, physical education and health promotion can improve health and well-being in schools and communities. Faculty and students study physical activity behavior, teacher preparation, youth development, active transportation and school-based health programs, including Safe Routes to School.
Through research, teaching and community partnerships, students gain hands-on experience translating evidence into programs that help children, youth and communities move more and live healthier lives.
Physical Activity Pedagogy Laboratory
The Physical Activity Pedagogy Laboratory integrates research, teaching and mentoring to improve physical activity and physical education experiences in school and community settings. The lab prepares confident, competent physical activity leaders while connecting scholarship with real-world implementation.
Research focus
- Physical activity pedagogy
- Physical and health teacher preparation
- Whole-of-school approaches to physical activity
- Safe Routes to School programming
- School and community physical activity implementation
Student research opportunities
Undergraduate and graduate students gain hands-on experience through research and school or community programming. Opportunities may include bike education, health fairs, physical education activities, data collection and other applied projects that build teaching, leadership and research skills.
Community services and participation
The lab works with schools and community partners to improve sustainable physical activity opportunities for children and youth. Schools, educators and organizations interested in Safe Routes to School, bike education, health fairs or physical activity programming may contact the faculty leads.
Partnerships and impact
The laboratory partners with Moscow School District and Safe Routes to School. Its work translates research into practice, strengthens whole-of-school physical activity systems and prepares practice-ready educators and leaders.
Contact information
Location: Physical Education Building, Room 100
Contact: Cate Egan: eganca@uidaho.edu | Chris Merica: cmerica@uidaho.edu
Instagram: @vandal_peteachers
Partner with us
Students can participate through research, teaching, field experiences and community implementation. Schools and community organizations can connect with faculty to explore physical activity programming, teacher development, active transportation and youth health initiatives.