The aim of the research group is to explore how physical activity correlates with various health variables, and how physical activity can be used as preventive and therapeutic medicine for various user groups. The research interest is based on an extensive national and international knowledge base that has been rapidly developing, especially in recent decades. Both nationally and internationally, it has been documented that the activity level in the population is far lower than what is documented and recommended to maintain or even improve health and function. At the same time, research shows that physical activity has numerous positive and promoting effects on mental and physical health, function, and quality of life, including life expectancy. These effects have no age limit and are documented through epigenetic effects during fetal life to function-enhancing effects in elderly individuals. It is also well documented that physical activity has a good effect as medicine for various somatic and mental disorders or behavioral developmental conditions. However, there are still many knowledge gaps that need to be filled. Among these are a lack of insight into the optimal format of activity, intensity, duration, frequency, target groups, important life phases, and factors related to successful implementation in health services or municipal, voluntary, and governmental organizations.
In a time when the shortage of healthcare personnel is a major challenge and access to specialized healthcare services is limited, we need to explore new ways to address health challenges in the population. This can contribute to better sustainability in our healthcare services. The focus of the research group can help provide some of these solutions by exploring new forms of preventive health services, new healthcare service providers, and more effective and alternative or supplementary treatment services, formats, personnel, and arenas. These focuses correspond with HiØ's vision: "Knowledge for human development and a sustainable society.
External partners:
- Durham University (UK)
- Lovisenberg Diaconal
- McMaster University (Canada)
- Norwegian School of Sports Sciences
- Oslo Metropolitan University
- University of Agder
- Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences
- University of South-Eastern Norway
- University of Kent
- University of Victoria (Canada)