Masters Studies
Matthew’s research
The immediate and delayed effects of acute resistance exercise on cognitive performance
As the body of evidence grows with respect to our understanding of the physiology behind human performance, new insights emerge in the field of exercise training and cognitive function with the prospect of pushing the boundaries of human performance even further. Among other forms of exercise training, resistance exercise has recently received attention boasting positive improvements on cognitive function. The study seeks to examine the immediate and delayed effect of acute resistance exercise at different intensities on cognitive performance across multiple cognitive domains.
Anthony’s research
Summary of my Research: I am testing the effects of wearing compression tights during sustained recovery on performance for highly trained cyclists. Participants will be split into a control and experimental group and perform an exhaustive bout of exercise designed to generate fatigue. After the session the experimental group will wear a lower body compression garment for 24 hours while the control will be allowed to wear any non-compressive clothing they prefer. Following the 24 hours recovery the participants will perform a laboratory 40km time trial to determine the garments effects on recovery for performance and physiological markers. Performance time and mean power output over the 40km will be used as performance markers and quadriceps muscle oxygenation and heart rate will be used as physiological markers. Hear rate will also be measured overnight during recovery as a crude measure for venous return/blood flow. 1 week later the groups will be reversed and the experimental procedures repeated so the groups may act as their own controls.
PhD Studies
Kasha's research
The purpose of this research study is to acquire a practical understanding of certain lifestyle factors among a cohort of 61 coloured (mixed ancestry) South African adult women, aged 18-64 years. These include physical activity and cardiorespiratory levels, as well as patterns of time spent physically active and sedentary from those women living in Cloetesville (Stellenbosch). More importantly, the study aims to examine each of these factors in relation to obesity and cardiometabolic disease risk (e.g. cardiovascular disease (CVD) and type 2 diabetes (T2D)). Overall, the research outcomes gained will help identify pragmatic and sustainable solutions for healthy lifestyle interventions, aimed at reducing the high prevalence of obesity, CVD and T2D.
Sharné's research
The aim of this research study is to acquire an understanding of the relationship between lifestyle factors and cognitive functioning in coloured (mixed ancestry) South African women aged 18-64 years. By identifying if these modifiable lifestyle factors can predict cognitive functioning, then positive changes in these behaviours could potentially reduce dementia risk in these women. More importantly this study will aim to develop practical guidelines to improve cardiometabolic and cognitive health thereby reducing the risk of future non-communicable diseases.