UFV researchers find blueberries may help trail runners pick up the pace

For competitive trail runners, every second can be the difference between winning a race or finishing a heartbeat behind the victor. Two University of the Fraser Valley professors are now suggesting that blueberries may be useful in shaving those precious seconds off your time.  Dr. Luisa Giles and Dr. Jason Brandenburg recently completed a study examining whether highbush blueberry supplements can improve trail-running performance. Their work … Read more

UFV’s Amanda Wurz helps kids with cancer and blood disorders move, play, and connect

This post was originally published here. For children affected by cancer or blood disorders, staying active might mean performing gentle shoulder circles from a hospital bed. On other days, it could mean racing up and down the stairs to collect stuffed animals or learning how to play a new game or sport.  Whatever the activity, … Read more

From patient to researcher: Cynthia Thomson is changing how chronic pain is treated

This post was originally published here. After living with chronic pain for more than a decade, University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) researcher Dr. Cynthia Thomson is helping reshape how clinicians across Canada understand and treat it.  Supported by Fraser Health, Cynthia, an associate professor of kinesiology at UFV, is leading a national advisory panel planning project to … Read more

Eleven UFV graduates land spots in competitive UBC physiotherapy program

This post was originally published here. A group of 11 students graduating from the University of the Fraser Valley with kinesiology degrees are making the leap to graduate school, landing together in the University of British Columbia’s physiotherapy program.  The students heading to UBC are Nic Shain, Shawn Arora, Trinity Nacario, Megan Filiatrault, Ajaiveer Boparai, … Read more

Let’s talk about pain: Exploring patient-centred ways to talk about the science of pain

young business woman neck and shoulder pain injury with red highlights on pain area, healthcare and medical concept.

Pain hurts!  It’s real. You can’t see it, but you know when you feel it. One in five Canadians experience persistent pain.  Unfortunately, many are recommended sub-optimal, second-line, or even non-recommended treatments. When it comes to treating pain, large gaps exist between evidence and practice. Most people, including health care professionals, view pain through an … Read more

Lesser supports postpartum women returning to exercise

Watch the CBC News video here This post was originally published here. Dr. Iris Lesser was surprised to find a dearth of resources and information about postpartum physical activity when her first child was born. Nine years later, Iris, an associate professor of kinesiology at UFV, is meeting that need with inclusive, accessible exercise content … Read more

KIN 360 Students Showcased Creative Community Mental Wellness Lessons

In the final two weeks of classes, students enrolled in KIN 360 presented their Community Mental Wellness lessons in small groups, demonstrating creativity, collaboration, and thoughtful engagement with curriculum-based learning. The lessons were developed using the Physical and Health Education (PHE) BC Curriculum, ensuring alignment with provincial educational standards. Each group presented their lesson in … Read more

KIN 435 Students Gained Hands-On Experience in Ergonomics and Biomechanics Lab

Students enrolled in KIN 435 (Ergonomics and Biomechanics) recently completed the third lab of the course, which focused on hands-on data collection in collaboration with the Faculty of Applied and Technical Studies. This lab provided students with an opportunity to apply theoretical concepts from the classroom to practical, real-world settings. Through this experience, students engaged … Read more

School of Kinesiology Students Led Inclusive After-School Dance & Movement Program at GW Graham

The School of Kinesiology hosted a Dance and Movement after-school program at G.W. Graham Secondary School, with support from the Chilliwack School Board. The program was designed to encourage physical activity, creativity, and social connection through inclusive movement experiences. The program was led by a fourth-year Kinesiology student and supported by six KIN student volunteers … Read more