Research
Well-Fit conducts basic, clinical, and applied research that focuses on improving health in youth.
Well-Fit collaborates with the Center of Children’s Healthy Lifestyles and Nutrition (CHLN) among other laboratories at the KU Medical Center. In this research Dr. Trent Herda examines the role of physical activity and resistance exercise training on neuromuscular function in youth. He has outlined the role of physical inactivity on skeletal muscle lipid profiles and lower neural activation, which both may contribute to poor physical and metabolic health in youth. His work demonstrates that resistance exercise training can improve skeletal muscle lipid profiles and neural activation along with strength in prepubescent youth. Furthermore, Dr. Herda finds that bone and cardiovascular health benefits from resistance exercise training.
In addition, Well-Fit conducts research that focuses on youth athletic development and sports performance. Dr. Qunicy Johnson’s research examines the role of strength and conditioning programs on short- and long-term athletic development. Johnson's integration of sports science research into the training environment is focused on optimizing athletic performance and is supported by evidence-based approaches. Through careful consideration, he has developed an athletic performance framework that supports the health, well-being, development, and performance for athletes of all ages and abilities. Key performance indicators such as health history, body composition, movement capacity, muscular strength and power, sprinting speed and agility, and cardiorespiratory fitness are each integral components that support his framework.
Dissemination of research that focuses on improving well and fitness in youth is a high priority of Well-Fit. We aim to provide high quality content that is supported by research that is intended to improve youth wellness and fitness. Dr. Herda and his team publish the Well-Fit Newsletter. The Well-Fit Newsletters includes concepts and implementation strategies to promote wellness and fitness in youth. The newsletter is intended for educators and others who have a direct impact on the daily activities of children.