What types of research can give a competitive edge to elite athletes seeking victory at the height of their game?

Six leading sports researchers from the University of the Sunshine Coast will tomorrow (Wednesday 13 July) offer insights into the findings used by local, national and international athletes, including Aussies preparing for the 2016 Rio Olympics and Paralympics.

Topics to be covered will include:

• What elite athletes eat and drink
• How they try to prevent injury
• How they psych themselves into a winning state of mind
• How they deal with the media spotlight
• Different stages of training
• Strategies for recovery

The speakers will be:

• Associate Professor in Nutrition and Dietetics Fiona Pelly
• Research Fellow in Human Factors in Sports and Outdoor Education Amanda Clacy
• Senior Lecturer in Psychology Dr Geoff Lovell
• Senior Lecturer in Creative Industries Dr Ben Goldsmith
• PhD researcher and Paralympic medallist Bridie Kean
• Professor of Sport Science (Biomechanics) Brendan Burkett

The seminar is part of this week’s annual USC Research Conference, themed ‘Local Research, Global Impact’ and featuring a variety of cutting-edge research projects and findings until Thursday 14 July, when speaking competitions will be held and awards announced.

— Julie Schomberg