PhD Student

Course Start: March 2017

Supervisor: Dr Lindsey Smith
Second Supervisor: Dr Dan Bailey
Third Supervisor: Dr Angel Chater

Working thesis title

Development and evaluation of a workplace intervention to reduce prolonged sedentary behaviour.

Abstract

Sedentary behaviour is a common occurrence in the workplace, particularly in office environments. Inactivity has been shown to be related to obesity, insulin resistance, diabetes, risk of cardiovascular disease and an overall higher mortality rate (World Health Organisation, 2010). The health risks related to prolonged passivity from sitting at a desk has consequences not only for those individuals, but also carers, the health system and the economy in the near future. Initial studies have shown promise that interruptions to the daily habit of sitting can improve cardiometabolic health markers. Therefore, it is of critical importance that interventions aimed at changing this prolonged sedentary behaviour be developed and tested for feasibility and efficacy.

Research Questions

• What are the effects of a multi-modal intervention on cardiometabolic health?
• What are the effects of an intervention on physical activity levels at work (and outside work hours)?
• What are the musculoskeletal benefits of an intervention?
• Are positive effects sustainable over the long term?

About Me

I am primarily interested in making a practical difference to peoples’ long-term health and wellbeing. I hold an MSc in Sports Performance from the University of Portsmouth, and BA in Psychology from Randolph-Macon Woman’s College (now Randolph College). In the past I have studied the effects of a mental skills intervention on athletic performance and the rate and level of burnout in university coaches. I have practiced as a specialist personal trainer for 10 years with qualifications from the Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs level 3) and the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). Seeing the detrimental physiological and musculoskeletal effects of desk-bound work on a daily basis has made me realise that more research is needed into the evaluation and prevention of these types of issues. Now I am excited to have the opportunity to investigate the efficacy of a workplace intervention.

Publications

• Blakeslee, M. L., & Goff, D. M. (2007). The effects of a mental skills training package on equestrians. The Sport Psychologist, 21(3), 288-301.

Contact Information

T: 01234 793053 (ext. 4053)
E: marsha.brierley@study.beds.ac.uk
Twitter: @MarshaSport