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Authors: Jill Lassiter, EdD, Ali Downey, and Cathy McKay, EdD
Affiliation: James Madison University
This study seeks to understand the impact of group fitness programing on exercise behavior and group cohesion among a pre-established social group. Research consistently shows that social support and social networks have a significant positive impact on exercise behavior, increasing both the likelihood and sustainability of physical activity participation. Thus, facilitating group exercise in a pre-existing social group has the dual benefit of increasing motivation, skills, and self-efficacy for exercise in both individuals and the collective group, as well as reinforcing social cohesion within the group. The purpose of this mixed-methods study is to examine the impact of a seven-week fitness program on individual motivation and self-efficacy for exercise, as well as group cohesion and engagement.
Authors: Chris Womack, PhD, Emily Perricone, and Jill Lassiter, EdD
Affiliation: James Madison University
This study seeks to examine the outcomes of a semester-long strength training program, EmpowHER, on women’s fat-free mass index (FFMI). Specifically, the research aims to address the following questions: (1) How many women entering the EmpowHER program meet or exceed the minimally recommended FFMI? and (2) What impact does participation in a full semester of EmpowHER have on participants’ FFMI? In addition to analyzing longitudinal changes in FFMI, the study will explore adherence variables to better understand how engagement with the program influences outcomes.
Authors: Dr. Cathy McKay, EdD, CAPE, and Dr. Jill Lassiter, EdD.
Affiliation: James Madison University
Research on the experiences of Kinesiology students in practicum and internship placements highlights their importance in bridging academic theory with practical application, fostering professional development, and shaping career aspirations. Research indicates no universal best practices for kinesiology internships due to differences in curricular mandates, faculty workload policies, community partner availability, and program outcomes. This study seeks to understand and describe the lived experiences of Kinesiology students taking part in practicum and internship placements at James Madison University, to add to the research in a meaningful way, and begin to discern best practices for practicum and internship requirements in the Kinesiology field. This study will utilize a qualitative descriptive approach, exploring the experiences of undergraduate students after taking part in a Kinesiology practicum or internship placement.
Investigators: Stephanie Kurti-Luden, PhD, Nicholas Luden, PhD, Michael Saunders, PhD, Dan Baur, PhD, Sydney Koppinger, BS, and Beverley Buchanan, BS
Affiliations: James Madison University and the Virginia Military Institute
Carrying heavy backpacks is a requirement for many professionals (i.e. search and rescue, wildland firefighters, and military personnel), especially in high altitude environments. Research in males has shown that this induces a shallower breathing pattern and can cause fatigue to muscles involved in breathing. Differences in female anatomy and physiology may make females more likely to exhibit respiratory muscle fatigue and have impaired performance compared to males. This research was designed to better understand female physiology and aid in refining recommendations for military personnel to optimize performance and safety.
Authors: Cathy McKay, EdD and Jill Lassiter, EdD
Affiliation: James Madison University
This study aims to explore how participants experience the EmpowHER strength training program offered by the JMU Morrison Bruce Center. Qualitative interviews will yield in-depth insights into participants’ perspectives and lived experiences, informing future programming, practice, and research questions on the topic. Understanding these lived experiences through qualitative inquiry is crucial for informing the design of more inclusive and effective strength training interventions. This research proposes to investigate the personal stories, motivators, barriers, and transformative effects experienced by participants in a structured strength training program. By conducting in-depth interviews, the study aims to capture the complexities of participant engagement, uncover factors supporting sustained participation, and identify opportunities for reducing disparities in strength training environments.
