The latest ‘Beds Talks’ at the University of Bedfordshire, ‘Beds Talks: Eating, Drinking & Exercising in a Warming World’, explored the links between climate change, sport science and nutrition. It was hosted at the Bedford campus. An estimated 60 people attended. The Beds Talks events are free public events, run throughout the academic year and showcase the best of the University’s ground-breaking research and its societal impact.

This event, led by Dr Michael Newell, Senior Lecturer in Health, Nutrition and Exercise, included presentations by fellow academics, doctoral students and alumni from the University who examined different aspects of the consequences of climate change on sport science and nutrition. Attendees were also able to take part in immersive workshops and demonstrations on topics such as cooling techniques and simulated environmental conditions. These took place in the University’s state-of-the-art laboratory spaces and facilities, with its specialised equipment and facilities for assessing human health risks and delivering exercise and diet interventions for health promotion.

Dr Newell said the event “represented a crucial opportunity for us to come together and explore the adaptations necessary in our daily practices and routines to align with the reality of rising global temperatures. I was eager for attendees to leave not just informed, but also equipped with practical strategies for adjusting their exercise, hydration, and dietary habits to maintain optimum health and performance in a warmer climate. Our goal is to create a forum for sharing innovative ideas and evidence-based solutions that can help individuals and communities thrive in the face of these environmental changes.”