Areas of Research
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The Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation is a multidisciplinary community of researchers engaged in empirical, critical and creative studies of physical activity and leisure. Their work spans the biological, psychological, social sciences, and humanities.
Drawing on diverse theoretical perspectives and methodological approaches, KSR scholars generate insights that inform practice, shape policy and enhance quality of life in communities locally and globally.
Researchers in KSR are committed to research that turns knowledge into action— inspiring movement that transforms lives.
Adapted Physical Activity
Adapted physical activity is a cross-disciplinary body of practical and theoretical knowledge inclusive of people who experience disability and is focused on impairments, activity limitations and participation restrictions in physical activity. It is a service delivery profession and an academic field of study that supports an attitude of acceptance of differences, advocates access to active lifestyles and sport and promotes innovative and cooperative service delivery, supports and empowerment. Adapted physical activity includes, but is not limited to, physical education, sport, recreation, dance, creative arts, nutrition, medicine and rehabilitation. Researchers in this area study issues related to children's and adults' engagement and inclusion in physical activity, recreation, and sport settings.
Behavioural Medicine
We explore how everyday movement behaviours—i.e., physical activity, sedentary time, and sleep—are associated with the prevention and treatment of physical and psychological health outcomes. Behavioural medicine advances the understanding of the psychological barriers and facilitators that help engage movement behaviors in ways that optimize health.
Using a range of observational and experimental methods such as randomized controlled trials, real-time tracking, program evaluation, and ambulatory assessment, we develop evidence-based, scalable interventions and policies to promote physical activity in a range of clinical and non-clinical populations.
Exercise Physiology
Our exercise physiology researchers examine how the body responds and adapts to physical activity—both acutely and over time. We work with a broad spectrum of populations—from competitive and recreational athletes to individuals living with chronic conditions—to explore the physiological mechanisms that enhance performance and support better health.
Our work places particular emphasis on athletic performance, women’s physiology, and chronic disease management, while also exploring broader questions about how physical activity can enhance quality of life across diverse populations and contexts.
By advancing the science of human movement, we aim to inform evidence-based training strategies, optimize physical performance, and enhance health outcomes across the lifespan.
Neuroscience and Movement
We study how the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and musculoskeletal system work together to control movement and sensation. Our research is built on the premise that from posture to complex actions, movement relies on this dynamic loop where the nervous system shapes how we move, and movement shapes how we think and function. Our research draws on biomechanics, neurophysiology, and motor control, with applications in health, rehabilitation, and human performance.
Recreation, Sport and Tourism
Our research explores how leisure, recreation, sport, and tourism shape lives, communities, and environments—from local parks, cultural festivals to global travel and sport events. We critically examine what can lead communities to thrive and how leisure experiences contribute to well-being, belonging, and sustainability. Drawing on the arts, humanities, and social and spatial sciences, our multidisciplinary work informs practice and policy across recreation, sport, tourism, parks and natural areas, arts and culture, and Indigenous communities. As a multi-disciplinary group of researchers, our work supports inclusive communities and belonging in civil society as we explore such topics as recreation accessibility, program design and delivery, facility management, organizational strategic behavior, park planning and management, event coordination, mountain pursuits, natural areas, travel destinations, and historic sites.
Meet researchers specializing in recreation, sport, and tourism
Sociocultural Studies of Physical Activity
Drawing on sociology of sport and physical cultural studies, our research examines how sport, exercise, and dance are shaped by—and shape—the social worlds we live in. We explore how physical activity is represented, experienced, and practiced across diverse cultural and social contexts. We employ a variety of social theories and primarily qualitative methods to analyze media narratives, policy decisions, and diverse individuals’ experiences with physical activity and the potential of sport, exercise, and dance to create social change.
Meet researchers specializing in socio-cultural studies of physical activity
Sport Psychology
We are a collaborative team passionate about advancing research that supports thriving in sport. We use qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods to focus on both athletes’ performance and well-being. Our work spans from grassroots to elite levels as we seek opportunities to empower individuals and teams to reach their full potential in and through sport.
