CURRENT PROJECTS
GTSD-30
As curators for three decades worth of past medical and performance data from the Ironman World Championship (Kona, HI), EPPL personnel are tasked with it’s management and safekeeping. This work is carried out utilizing the EPPL’s Global Triathlon Safety Database, and represents over 2,000 man-hours of effort in collaboration with Dr. Douglas Hiller. As one of the world’s more robust longitudinal performance-based data sets on elite athletes, we aim to apply this information to improve ultra-endurance safety worldwide. If you are interested in learning more about this project, please contact Dr. Christopher Connolly.
Triathlon Risk Surveillance and Assessment of Fatalities and Environments (TriSafe)
TriSafe aims to improve athlete safety in Ironman triathlons through biometric monitoring and data analysis. This study utilizes wearable devices such as chest straps, watches, and sleeping tracking rings. By examining cardiac indicators and other health metrics through these devices; the project seeks to identify patterns linked to medical risk and enhance athlete health and safety during Ironman events. If you are interested in learning more, please contact Daniel Smith.
Non-Specific Lower Back Pain
Non-specific lower back pain (NSLBP) is a common problem that affects many people worldwide. More specifically, NSLBP affects over half of university staff annually (~56%). However, how physical activity, movement-quality assessments and psychosocial factors interact in this population remains unexplored. This project’s purpose is to examines and compare the differences in movement patterns, physical activity habits, and psychosocial perceptions between individuals with and without NSLBP. The results aims to help inform the development of workplace wellness programs and strategies to prevent and manage back pain. If you are interested in learning more, please contact Ailaiti Xiaerzhate (Shirzat)
Triathlon Resilience and Anxiety at Competition Timepoints (TRACT)
This project seeks to discover how type of training (indoor vs outdoor) and past adverse experiences (musculoskeletal injury and hydration illnesses) influence pre-competition anxiety in Ironman triathletes. Our underlying assumption is that pre-competition anxiety is related to adverse cardiac events (arrhythmia and sudden cardiac death). Specifically, a major influence is put on the on the swim portion of the race, as this is when most deaths in triathlon occur. The driving force behind this project is to create a safer environment for athletes and the sport. If you are interested in learning more, please contact Dr. Christopher Connolly.
