Overview
The Performance Science Unit incorporates the conventional sports science disciplines of Exercise Physiology and Nutrition. In addition, Performance Analysis has evolved to include the traditional field of Biomechanics.
The main objective of the performance science multi-disciplinary team is to use knowledge and expertise to assist athletes to realise their true potential through an enhanced level of understanding and application of the nutritional, physiological and performance aspects of their sport.
Generally, interventions are concerned with profiling and monitoring athlete training and competition performance and general health status. The information gathered is evaluated using an established evidence base, enabling prescription of specific strategies to individualise training and nutrition programmes and optimise preparation for competition.
The performance science team collaborates with the performance skills and sports medicine practitioners and strength and conditioning coaches to develop inter-disciplinary projects with the aim of positively impacting on performance.
This integrated approach to athlete and coach support enables a comprehensive holistic service to be provided, tailored to suit the individual performance goals and specific needs of each athlete.
Moreover, integration is facilitated by the centralisation of staff, which promotes daily interaction, leading to appropriate solutions to performance issues.
As sport is extremely dynamic and performances are constantly improving, innovation is required to provide the support necessary for athletes to compete on the world stage. Creativity and innovation is therefore encouraged within performance science and this is often demonstrated by practitioners piloting and embracing new technologies or using novel approaches to problem solving.
In summary, performance science can play a vital role in assisting athletes and coaches prepare effectively for competition and ultimately, increase their chances of success.
Facilities
Operationally, interventions are conducted with athletes in both laboratory and field settings. In–house support is provided in the sports science laboratory.
This exceptional facility incorporates a performance analysis suite, in addition to individual consultation rooms, and is located in the sports centre at the University of Ulster.
Furthermore, detailed body composition, blood and technical analysis are often performed in the exercise physiology and biomechanics teaching and research laboratories at the Jordanstown campus through ongoing collaboration with the sports science academic staff. In addition, preparation for competition in warm-climates is facilitated through access to the dedicated environmental chamber.
Field profiling is also performed in facilities at the University of Ulster at Jordanstown, including the athletics track, sports halls and third generation pitch. Additional field interventions are conducted at various training and competition venues, including altitude, pre-competition and warm-weather training camps.
