Here you can find experts who can comment on topics such as exercise during pregnancy, fall prevention, chronic pain, sports nutrition, and how best to prepare for challenges such as Vasaloppet.
Children’s and Youth Sports
Erik Backman, Associate Professor of Education with a specialisation in Sport Science, conducts research on children’s and youth sports and how the conditions for young people’s participation in sports are changing. He can comment on issues such as increasing performance demands, early specialisation and selection, as well as rising costs for families. His research also explores how these developments affect values such as play, enjoyment of physical activity, social connection and inclusion in sports.
The Future of Exercise
Mikael Svarén conducts research in Sport and Health Sciences and can comment on the exercise technologies of the future. His research focuses on sensors and technological solutions that measure physiological parameters, such as lactate levels in sweat, enabling exercise to be tailored more closely to the individual. Mikael’s work aims to optimise performance and recovery for both recreational and elite athletes.
Falls and Fall Training
Mikael Nordlander, Professor of Exercise Physiology, conducts research on falling techniques and injury prevention. Drawing inspiration from judo training and other movement techniques, he studies ways of reducing the risk of injury from falls. His research also covers exercise for older adults and children, with the aim of adapting exercises to individual abilities and needs.
Energy and Endurance
Tomas Carlsson is Senior Lecturer in Medical Science specialising in Exercise Physiology. His research focuses on energy expenditure, performance and recovery in endurance sports such as cross-country skiing. Tomas also studies tactical choices and exercise intensity during races, providing insights into optimal energy intake and race strategies for Vasaloppet participants.
Pregnancy and Exercise
Michail Tonkonogi, Professor of Exercise Physiology, conducts research on exercise during pregnancy. His research shows that physical activity is safe and can facilitate childbirth and recovery. He also studies how heavy lifting can be performed safely, provided there are no medical complications and the individual’s physical condition allows it.
Older Adults and Exercise
Michail Tonkonogi, Professor of Exercise Physiology, can comment on exercise for older adults and how high-intensity exercise can be possible even at an advanced age when adapted to the individual’s abilities. His work highlights how strength, balance and fitness can be maintained to support healthy ageing.
Pain and Rehabilitation
Wim Grooten is Professor of Physiotherapy and can comment on movement, rehabilitation and problems related to physical strain (ergonomics). His research focuses on how movement is learned, how the body is subjected to physical strain at work and during exercise, and how exercise can be used to prevent injuries and support rehabilitation.
Linda Vixner is Associate Professor of Medical Science and conducts research on chronic pain. She can comment on how individualised exercise and physical activity can be integrated into rehabilitation to reduce pain and improve quality of life. Her research focuses on personalised approaches and long-term health benefits.
Children and Exercise
Michail Tonkonogi, Professor of Exercise Physiology, conducts research on strength training and physical activity in children. He can provide guidance on how children can exercise safely in ways that promote health and motor development, and how exercise can be adapted to their interests and everyday lives.