University is seeking new talent to help with its ground-breaking lifestyle and health work
Professors Tom Yates and Charlotte Edwardson
“Physical activity has the power to transform lives,” that’s the message from University of Leicester experts on National Fitness Day (18 September).
Professor Tom Yates, Director of the University’s Leicester Lifestyle and Health Research Group (LLHRG), which was awarded £14 million this year to expand its work into the prevention and management of chronic disease through physical activity, says that: “Keeping active, eating well and getting good quality sleep are the keys to good health so it’s important that no matter what age you are, you keep moving as much as you can.”
He said: “Finding activities you enjoy is vitally important, not only is it good for your overall fitness, but it also releases endorphins or natural chemicals that improve your sense of well-being and this in turn can help with feelings of depression or anxiety so it really is a win-win situation.”
The LLHRG is forging ahead with its transformative work to benefit people living with conditions including type 2 diabetes, obesity and heart disease through prevention and management, including finding the bests ways of combining lifestyle changes with medications for optimal health.
The funding award from Research England recognises the University of Leicester’s unique position within the sector as conducting world leading research in the disciplines of both Sports Science and Clinical Medicine. Leicester is the second ranked University nationally for both disciplines by the Research Excellence Framework (REF2021).
Ground breaking research by the LLHRG into the health impact of sitting down too much has already contributed to revised clinical guidelines across the globe and has influenced wearable technology leaders Fitbit and led to the creation of the UK’s first evidence-based programme encouraging desk-based workers to sit less and move more often throughout the day. Their research into the health benefits of brisk walking has also had major international impact.
Professor Yates said: “Now it’s time to realise our ambitions to continue our ground breaking research. Not only is the Leicester Lifestyle and Health Group investing in new facilities and equipment, but our team is looking for new research talent to come and support us. We currently have five posts advertised in Lifestyle Medicine including a Professor, Associate Professors and Research Fellow and are keen to hear from interested individuals within the field.
The LLHRG is based within the Leicester Diabetes Centre at the Leicester General Hospital where there are exercise training and testing laboratories, a physical activity measurement suite, and a specialist biochemical laboratory. Work is supported by NHS staff and specialists in behaviour change and psychology as well as diet and nutrition experts.
Professor Charlotte Edwardson, LLHRG’s Deputy Director, added: “We’re very excited about the future and the work of the group which is already making a difference to the lives of people living in Leicester and Leicestershire. The funding we received and the new posts available will enable us to expand these success stories to the benefit of all and we’re looking for the right people to help support that within our dedicated team.”