dissertation research exercise

Home > USC Columbia > Public Health, Arnold School of > SPH_EXERCISE_SCIENCE > Exercise Science Theses and Dissertations

Exercise Science Theses and Dissertations

Theses/dissertations from 2023 2023.

Leveraging Church Environments to Promote Rural Physical Activity and Healthy Eating , Kelsey Rothera Day

The Role of Environmental Context in Supporting Children’s 24- Hour Movement Behaviors; A Positive Deviance Perspective , Roddrick Dugger

Effects of Caffeine on Measures of Clinical Outcome and Recovery Following Mild Traumatic Brain Injury in Adolescents , Jacob Michael Eade

Sleep, Physical Activity, and Sedentary Time in the First Year Postpartum , Erin Elizabeth Kishman

Mechanisms of Social Stress Susceptibility and Resilience in Female Rats , Brittany Sara Pate

Predictors of Driving Performance Post-Stroke , Halle Elise Prine

A Randomized, Placebo Controlled, Double-Blind, Crossover Study to Evaluate the Effects of Two Novel Hydration Beverage Formulas on Rehydration in Healthy Adults , Nathaniel David Rhoades

Effect of Action Selection Demands on the Execution of Goal-Directed Reaches , James Garrison Riedy

An Examination of Inter-Limb Functional Asymmetry After a Fatiguing Bout of Exercise in High Level Soccer Players , Nestor Urrea

Exercise and Mental Health Over the Course of a Semester , Jamie Alexis Whitney

Theses/Dissertations from 2022 2022

Molecular Architecture of Cardiometabolic Responses to Regular Exercise , Jacob L. Barber

Relationships Among Sleep, Physical Activity, and Weight Status in Children and Adolescents , Agnes Bucko

Self Reported Cardiovascular Health and Health Behaviors in Women Veterans , Seth Byland

Sports Nutrition- and Strength and Conditioning-based Interventions to Bolster Health and Human Performance in Male and Female Tactical Personnel , Harry Paul Cintineo

Psychophysiological Biomarkers of Concussion Recovery , Adam Todd Harrison

The Effects of Exercise Training on Cholesterol Efflux Capacity in the HERITAGE Family Study , Joshua Adam Hawkins

Physical Activity and Stress Between American Students and Asian International Students at the University of South Carolina , Hao Lei

Effects of Positive Social Comparative Feedback During Practice on Motor Sequence Learning, Performance Expectancies, and Resting State Connectivity , Allison Foster Lewis

Using a Multi-Direction Reaching Approach to Investigate Fitts’ Law and the Effect of Attentional Focus on Motor Learning , Charles R. Smith

Impact of a Novel Marine Algae Supplement on Inflammatory and Immune Response After High-Intensity Exercise , Caroline Sara Vincenty

Theses/Dissertations from 2021 2021

Clinical Determinants of VO 2 max Response to Endurance Training: HERITAGE Family Study , Emanuel Ayala

The Influence of ADHD on Concussion in NCAA College Athletes , Brett Steven Gunn

The Relationship of Structured Environments With Children’s Body Composition and Obesogenic Behaviors , Ethan T. Hunt

Racial Disparities in Gestational Weight Gain, Body Mass Index, And Physical Activity During Pregnancy and After Delivery , Marcey Acacia Jiles

Strengthening the Evidence-Base of Youth Nutrition Programs: A Three Part Approach , Rebecca Kyryliuk

Multiple Processes Predict Motor Learning and Impairments After a Stroke , Christopher Michael Perry

Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior During and After Pregnancy and Postpartum Weight Retention , Kaitlyn Taylor Ramey

The Influence of Sport Participation on Physical Activity in Youth , Emily R. Shull

Examination of Energy Needs and Female Athlete Triad Components in Competitive Cheerleaders , Allison Smith

Performance of the Wrist-worn Actigraph GT3X + in Measuring Physical Activity in Older Women , Michal Talley Smith

Effects of Basketball Exercise Simulation Test (BEST) On Landing Mechanics in Active Females , Madison Treece

Theses/Dissertations from 2020 2020

The Association of Exercise Training Modalities with Circulating Branched Chain Amino Acid and Ketone Body levels in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes , Ryan Andrew Flynn

Examination of Daily Steps in People With Parkinson’s Disease & Stroke: Two Steps Forward , Reed Handlery

Examination of Emergency Medical Services Activations for Sport- Related Injuries , Rebecca Marie Hirschhorn

Sex-Based Differences in Concussion Outcomes Among Adolescents and Young Adults , Jacob James Michael Kay

Piloting a Smartphone-Based Sedentary Behavior Reduction Intervention for Adults With Overweight or Obesity: Take a STAND 4 Health , Chelsea Larsen

Integrating Survivors of Stroke Into Cardiac Rehabilitation , Elizabeth Wherley Regan

Lipoprotein Discordance: Associations With Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome, and Response to Exercise , Jonathan Joseph Pulama Kupaianaha Ruiz-Ramie

Characterizing Patterns of Adherence to Physical Activity Goals in Behavioral Weight Control , Melissa Lee Stansbury

Mental Health Prevalence and Biofeedback Intervention for Student- Athletes , Samantha Rose Weber

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

Leveraging For-Cause Physical Activity Events for Physical Activity Promotion: An Investigation Using Self-Determination Theory , John A. Bernhart

Effect of TRB3 on Skeletal Muscle Mass Regulation and Exercise-Induced Adaptation , Ran Hee Choi

The Role of AMPK in the Regulation of Skeletal Muscle Proteostasis During Cancer Cachexia , Dennis K. Fix

Identification of Factors Contributing to Musculoskeletal Injuries in Military Basic Trainees , Amy Fraley Hand

Effects of Spinal Manipulation on Brain Activation in Individuals with Chronic Low Back Pain , Max K. Jordon

The Effect of Patient Financial Liability on Physical Therapy Utilization and Patient Reported Outcomes for Patients With Low Back Pain: An Instrumental Variable Analysis , Adam D. Lutz

Physical Activity of Preschoolers with Developmental Disabilities and Delays , Michaela A. Schenkelberg

Reproducibility and The Effects of Exercise on The Endurance Index , Michael Dean Smith, JR.

Differential Cholinergic Modulation of Prelimbic and Thalamic Input to the Basolateral Amygdala , Sarah Catherine Tryon

Theses/Dissertations from 2018 2018

The Effects of Exercise Training on Cardiovascular-related Circulating MicroRNAs , Jacob Luther Barber

Neighborhood Socioeconomic Environment and Its Influence on Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Physical Activity in Youth , Morgan N. Clennin

Calibration of an Accelerometer for Measurement of Very Light Intensity Physical Activity in Children , Joseph S. Gorab

The Effects Of Exercise Mode And Intensity On Energy Expenditure During And After Exercise In Resistance Trained Males , George Lewis Grieve

Enhancing Dancing: Examining The Potency Of A Combined Action Observation And Brain Stimulation Intervention , Melissa B. Kolar

The Effects Of Modifiable Lifestyle Behaviors On Lipoprotein Particle Concentration And Size , Ryan R. Porter

Cortical Damage and Disconnection Contribute to Post-Stroke Sensorimotor Impairment , Shafagh Yazdani

Theses/Dissertations from 2017 2017

Patterns Of Participation And Performance In Youth Baseball Players , Amanda Arnold

The Effect of Energy-Matched Exercise Intensity on Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Motor Learning , Jessica F. Baird

The Role of Exercise Dose on Ghrelin Concentration in Postmenopausal Women , Kimberly Bowyer

Children’s Obesogenic Behaviors During Summer Versus School , Keith Brazendale

The Effects of a Game Simulation on Muscle Activation and Knee Kinematics in Females , Geoffrey Collins

The Regulation of Glycoprotein130 Dependent Inflammatory Cytokines one Basal and Mechanical Stimuli Induced Protein Synthesis in Myotubes and Skeletal Muscles , Song Gao

Muscle Inflammatory Signaling Regulates Eccentric Contraction-Induced Protein Synthesis during Cancer Cachexia , Justin Perry Hardee

The Addition Of A Concurrent Bimanual Task Influences Postural Sway And Walking Speed Performance And Prioritization Across All Ages , Derek Matthew Liuzzo

Maternal Physical Activity and Cardiorespiratory Fitness During Pregnancy and its Relation to Infant Size , Samantha M. McDonald

Identifying Associations between Religious Commitment and Preventive Health Behaviors in a Southeastern Rural County , Nathan A. Peters

The Association Of Changes In Cardiorespiratory Fitness With Changes In Cardiometabolic Risk Factors , Leanna Marie Ross

The Nutrition Assistance Landscape in Afterschool Programs: Understanding the Gap between Research, Policy, and Practice , Falon Elizabet Tilley

Theses/Dissertations from 2016 2016

The Effects Of Exercise On Sleep Parameters Among Older Women , Charity B. Breneman

Exploring Children’s Physical Activity Levels Through Structure and Measurement , Jessica L. Chandler

Comparison of the Effects of Energy Flux on Metabolic Conditions and Satiety in Young Adults , Molly Madison DeMello

Role Of Altered Gut Microbiota In Tumor Development, Mucus Production And Inflammation In APC MIN/+ Mouse Model , Kamaljeet Kaur

Exploratory Analysis Of PTSD Severity And Objective Measures Of Physical Activity Among Combat Veterans , Danny O. Sauceda

Theses/Dissertations from 2015 2015

Healthy Eating and Physical Activity Environmental and Policy Assessment – Measurement Issues and Implications , Rahma Jamea Yousef Ajja

Metabotropic Receptor Modulation of Kainate Receptors in the Hippocampus , C'iana Patrice Cooper

The Recovery of Gut Barrier Function With Selenium Rich Diet in Acute DSS-Induced Colitis , Sarah Depaepe

The Role of Ovarian Function in the Progression of Cachexia in the APC MIN/+ Mouse , Kimbell Louise Hetzler

Factors Influencing Level of Implementation of Physical Activity Interventions in Youth-Serving Organizations , Yuen Yan Lau

Correlations Between White Matter Integrity, Structural Connectivity, And Upper and Lower Extremity Motor Function in Individuals With Chronic Stroke , Denise M. Peters

Cardiorespiratory Fitness, Body Fatness Effect on Submaximal Systolic Blood Pressure and Cardiovascular Prognosis among Young Adults , Vivek Kumar Prasad

Adiponectin and Selenium Rich Diet can act as a Complimentary Medicine in the Treatment of Intestinal and Chronic Inflammation Induced Colon Cancer , Arpit Saxena

Novel Drug 2-benzoyl-3-phenyl 6,7-dichloroquinoxaline 1,4-dioxide Induces Colon Cancer Cell Apoptosis Through HIF-1α Pathway , Alexander-Jacques Theodore Sougiannis

Patterns of Sedentary Behavior and Association with Health Risks Among African American Adults , Tatiana Y. Warren-Jones

Patient and Provider Perceptions of Weight Gain, Physical Activity, and Nutrition in Pregnancy , Kara M. Whitaker

Theses/Dissertations from 2014 2014

The Effects of Exercise Training on Cognitive Reserve and Cognitive Function in Healthy Older Women , Katie Marie Becofsky

The Effects of Arthritis Foundation’s “Walk With Ease” Program on Cognitive Function , Ryan S. Falck

Weight-Gain and Energy Balance , Benjamin Thomas Gordon

ROLE OF CHRONIC INFLAMMATION ON LIVER FUNCTION DURING CACHEXIA PROGRESSION IN THE APC MIN/+ MOUSE MODEL , Aditi Narsale

Longitudinal Evaluations of Objectively Measured Physical Activity: Capturing the Full Spectrum of Duration and Intensity , Amanda E. Paluch

The Regulation of Skeletal Muscle Mass and Mitochondrial Biogenesis by gp130/STAT3 Signaling during Cancer Cachexia , Melissa Puppa

Theses/Dissertations from 2013 2013

The Mechanisms of Posterior Shoulder Tightness and Effectiveness of Manual Therapy , Lane Brooks Bailey

Optimal Cooperation In Joint Action Tasks , Scott Michael Blanchette

Measuring Organizational Member Involvement In Physical Activity Coalitions Across the United States , Daniel Benjamin Bornstein

Outsmarting the Brain: Augmenting Motor Training with Non-invasive Brain Stimulation in Order to Facilitate Plasticity-Dependent, Functional Improvement within the Motor Cortex , Raymond Joseph Butts

The Association of Physical Fitness With Psychological Health Outcomes In Soldiers During Army Basic Combat Training , Shannon K. Crowley

An Investigation into the Influence of Dietary Saturated Fat and Quercetin Supplementation on Adiposity, Macrophage Behavior, Inflammation, and Non-Alcoholic Fatty-Liver Disease , Reilly Enos

The Effect of Radiation on Myofiber Properties in Mouse Skeletal Muscle , Dennis K. Fix

Exploring the Role of Culture and Race In Stroke Rehabilitation Disparities , Jennifaye Verdina Greene

Classroom Exercise Breaks and Educational Outcomes in Elementary School Students , Erin Kaye Howie

The Effect of Cancer Cachexia Severity and Eccentric Muscle Contractions on Selected Myofiber Metabolic Properties in Mouse Skeletal Muscle , Joshua Earl Mangum

Advanced Search

• Notify me via email or RSS
• Collections
• Disciplines

Submissions

• University Libraries

Home | About | FAQ | My Account | Accessibility Statement

Privacy Copyright

Explore your training options in 10 minutes Get Started

• Graduate Stories
• Partner Spotlights
• Bootcamp Prep
• Bootcamp Admissions
• University Bootcamps
• Coding Tools
• Software Engineering
• Web Development
• Data Science
• Tech Guides
• Tech Resources
• Career Advice
• Online Learning
• Internships
• Apprenticeships
• Tech Salaries
• Associate Degree
• Bachelor's Degree
• Master's Degree
• University Admissions
• Best Schools
• Certifications
• Bootcamp Financing
• Higher Ed Financing
• Scholarships
• Financial Aid
• Best Coding Bootcamps
• Best Online Bootcamps
• Best Web Design Bootcamps
• Best Data Science Bootcamps
• Best Technology Sales Bootcamps
• Best Data Analytics Bootcamps
• Best Cybersecurity Bootcamps
• Best Digital Marketing Bootcamps
• Los Angeles
• San Francisco
• Browse All Locations
• Digital Marketing
• Machine Learning
• See All Subjects
• Bootcamps 101
• Full-Stack Development
• Career Changes
• View all Career Discussions
• Mobile App Development
• Cybersecurity
• Product Management
• UX/UI Design
• What is a Coding Bootcamp?
• Are Coding Bootcamps Worth It?
• How to Choose a Coding Bootcamp
• Best Online Coding Bootcamps and Courses
• Best Free Bootcamps and Coding Training
• Coding Bootcamp vs. Community College
• Coding Bootcamp vs. Self-Learning
• Bootcamps vs. Certifications: Compared
• What Is a Coding Bootcamp Job Guarantee?
• How to Pay for Coding Bootcamp
• Ultimate Guide to Coding Bootcamp Loans
• Best Coding Bootcamp Scholarships and Grants
• Education Stipends for Coding Bootcamps
• Get Your Coding Bootcamp Sponsored by Your Employer
• GI Bill and Coding Bootcamps
• Tech Intevriews
• Our Enterprise Solution
• Connect With Us
• Publication
• Reskill America
• Partner With Us

• Resource Center
• Bachelor’s Degree
• Master’s Degree

The Top 10 Most Interesting Exercise Science Research Topics

The field of exercise science is rapidly growing as new technologies like computer visualization and biotracking deepen our understanding of human physiology. New technologies allow us to better prevent injuries, allowing athletes to push their limits beyond what we thought possible. Thanks to this, there is no shortage of exercise science research topics to write about.

In this article, we’ll show you 10 great examples of exercise science research topics. If you are pursuing a degree in this field, you’ll learn better ways of finding good exercise science research paper topics and how to develop stronger exercise science research questions for your projects.

Find your bootcamp match

What makes a strong exercise science research topic.

Strong exercise science research topics are timely and relevant. Leading researchers and sports institutions should still be discussing them at the time you are writing your research paper. The Strength and Conditioning Journal is a great place to find some of the latest activity research topics including articles on different health benefits, health issues, preventive interventions, and rehabilitation after injury.

Your topic should be broad enough to find enough strong sources, but narrow enough to stand out. Controversial topics are acceptable if you have enough evidence to back up your research. If it’s your first paper, consider approaching a less complex topic. You can also ask your teacher for suggestions if you are struggling to find strong university-level topics. Remember to follow the guidelines for choosing a topic set by your institution.

Tips for Choosing an Exercise Science Research Topic

• Choose a topic that intrigues you. A personally interesting topic will motivate you during the research process. If you have a personal connection to what you are researching, you will have a much easier time writing about it.
• Narrow your topic. By picking a specific subject, you will have an easier time finding credible sources to support your research. By reducing the number of books and articles to read and only choosing literature that is immediately relevant to your topic idea, you also won’t have to spend as much effort before starting to write.
• Talk to your teacher or academic advisor. Your teachers are great resources you have at your disposal. They have experience choosing topics for college students and will most likely be able to help you pick a topic you’ll find engaging to research.
• Look through journals to find exciting topics. Review topics published in the journals like the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research. These research journals publish the latest fitness research papers and can help you find a topic that interests you.
• Consider the research interests of your teacher. It’ll be convenient if your research topic matches their expertise, as they’ll be able to provide you with better feedback during your research process.

What’s the Difference Between a Research Topic and a Research Question?

A research topic is a specific area of study. Sprains in adult athletes or rehabilitation for brain injuries, for example, are research topics. A research question is a way to add new knowledge to that area of study. Examples of research questions would be “What is the role of nutrition in the recovery of sprains in athletes?” or “What is the effect of cardio exercises on adults with brain injuries?”

The goal of your research should be focused around answering the research question. Your answer will help you and others to understand the topic better. Research questions tend to be more specific than the research topics in exercise science.

How to Create Strong Exercise Science Research Questions

To create strong exercise science research questions, you should first become familiar with the topic the question concerns. The answer to your research question should be supported by previous studies done on the topic. Reading previously published studies will help you learn more while preventing you from doing any redundant research.

The scientific method helps exercise scientists better understand their field. Your question should start with how, why, when, or what questions. The scope of your question must be manageable in relation to how long you have to answer it.

Questions that require in-depth experiments may be beyond your reach if you only have a week. Before choosing the question that will lead your research, consider the time it will take you to answer it.

Top 10 Exercise Science Research Paper Topics

1. benefits of resistance training for reducing the negative consequences of aging.

Metabolic resistance training can counter the adverse effects of aging. According to a 2019 study by the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, only nine percent of older adults in the United States practice any form of resistance or weight lifting exercises. Metabolic resistance training for elderly residents has become a recently popular topic, as it has been proven to increase muscle mass and muscle strength and relieve intervertebral joint pain.

2. Determining the Minimal Amount of Physical Exercise Required to Maintain Strength and Stamina

Long periods of physical inactivity harm physical fitness. Scientists want to know how much physical exercise can prevent the loss of muscle strength. The British Journal of Sports Medicine published an article that took an in-depth look into the negative effects of sedentary behavior . There are plenty of physiology research topics about improving daily life with an active lifestyle.

3. Effect of a Low-Carbohydrate Ketogenic Diet on Body Mass on Olympic Weightlifting Athletes

Exercise scientists have realized the impact of nutrition on endurance, body composition, and recovery. This has led to theories being tested of controversial ideas in nutrition and measuring their effects on muscle strength. 

For example, a study by the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research shows that ketogenic diets reduce mass without compromising performance . If you are interested in becoming a nutritionist , researching the role of nutrition in relation to physical activity could be beneficial for your future career.

4. The Effect of Exercise on the Gut Microbiome

The role of exercise on the gut microbiome is an exciting topic in exercise science. In 2019, researchers found some proof that regular exercise increased gut bacteria and contributed to the health of the gut microbiome, as mentioned in a study that was published in Exercises and Sport Science Reviews.

The gut microbiome produces a wide range of biomolecules, including neurotransmitters, that regulate mood and anxiety. Researchers believe that healthy gut bacteria can improve our mental fitness and health. Their research also leads them to believe that gut bacteria can improve the body’s ability to fight inflammatory illnesses and certain types of cancer.

5. Wearable Technology for Health Monitoring and Sport Performance

Smartwatches pack sensors that can track your movement patterns, heart rate, and oxygen levels. In recent years, these bio trackers have become increasingly affordable and easy to use. Researchers at the School of Kinesiology at the University of Michigan have used these sensors to track elderly patients and alert their caregivers in real-time.

In sports, kinesiologists use this technology to measure aerobic speed and the onset of fatigue. With a degree in kinesiology , you can work with elite athletes and improve their athletic performance using these technologies.

6. Optimizing Human Movement Potential for Elite Athletes

Exercise scientists study the biomechanics of human movement to improve the body’s longevity. Understanding the human body allows researchers to develop primary injury prevention methods.

Personal trainers help athletes achieve extraordinary performance without the risk of musculoskeletal injury. If you want to become a certified personal trainer , physiology research paper topics in relation to this topic may be of interest to you.

7. Equity in Sports

Exercise scientists are also concerned with the social aspects of sports. Many athletes live under adverse conditions and need to make extra efforts to match the achievements of others. Equity in sports is currently a very important exercise science topic. Researchers find solutions to increase access to professional sports by improving policies to prevent racism, sexism, and other forms of discrimination.

If you want to become a sports agent or an athletic director, look for physiology research topics in relation to equity in sports. Becoming a sports manager takes a certain level of education in the professional fitness industry, such as a graduate degree in sports management .

8. Effect of Bike Commuting on Insulin Sensitivity, Cardiorespiratory Fitness, and Adipose Tissue

Exercise scientists look for solutions to public health problems like diabetes and obesity. A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that commuting by bike has a significant impact on insulin sensitivity , improving cardiovascular fitness, and reducing belly fat.

With cardiometabolic health such as cardiovascular disease, being an urgent topic in the United States, considering the prevalence of obesity, there is plenty of research on the subject, making it a great initial topic.

9. Reducing Lower Back Pain by Increasing Physical Activity

With athletes having a high sports injury risk, and many injuries causing severe back pain, pain management has become an important topic in exercise science. Exercise scientists research ways to reduce pain using principles in kinesiology and found that increasing physical activity can reduce lower back pain , according to a study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.

10. Applications of Kinesiology in the Treatment of Movement Dysfunctions

Exercise scientists have been studying the relationship between movement and neuroplasticity for a long time. Physical activity during rehabilitation for stroke patients or patients with brain injuries has proven to reduce movement dysfunctions. Understanding the effects of exercise on neural networks is an important research topic in the field of rehabilitation.

Other Examples of Exercise Science Research Topics & Questions

Exercise science research topics.

• Assessment of the use of virtual reality rehabilitating brain-injured or stroke patients
• The role of caffeine as a sports performance enhancer for optimal performance
• Current and future perspectives on the effects of nutrition on physical exercise performance
• Hormonal responses in older men to metabolic resistance training
• Comparison of occupational physical activity and leisure physical activity on cardiovascular fitness

Exercise Science Research Questions

• What are the benefits of physical activity for cognitive health?
• What is the impact of VR training on human body composition testing?
• What are the advantages of wearing an elevation training mask during physical exercise?
• What are the physiological causes of mental fatigue on endurance performance?
• How does physical exercise improves mental health and academic performance in university students?

Choosing the Right Exercise Science Research Topic

When choosing the right exercise science research topic, consider researching topics that you are already familiar with, as your existing knowledge may help you with your research. You could also ask your academic advisor, other staff in the department of exercise science, or even physical therapy professionals about current trends in exercise science and injury recovery.

Physical fitness and training performance are common themes in exercise science research. Recent articles published by the British Journal of Sports Medicine or the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research are a great place to start. Make sure you choose a manageable research topic. Your teacher can help you make sure your research topic is relevant before you begin.

"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"

Venus, Software Engineer at Rockbot

Exercise Science Research Topics FAQ

Exercise science is important because it tries to find solutions to problems concerning the optimal performance of athletes and the general health of the human population. Exercise science also helps develop new rehabilitation methods for injury recovery and pain management.

Yes, kinesiology is a STEM discipline that studies exercise and movement. Breakthroughs in kinesiology come from scientific research and the use of the scientific method. It is a wing of the department of exercise science of many universities.

The average salary of an exercise physiologist is $50,280 per year, which is above the national average, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. About half of all exercise physiologists are self-employed, while others work in hospitals, spas, and physical therapy offices.

With a Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science, you can get a job as a physical therapist or a fitness instructor. With a graduate degree in exercise science, you can become a sports agent or an athletic director.

About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication .

What's Next?

Get matched with top bootcamps

Ask a question to our community, take our careers quiz.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Home > College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences > Departments > Sport and Exercise Psychology > Sport and Exercise Psychology Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Sport and Exercise Psychology Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Theses/dissertations from 2023 2023.

Living Your Best Life: The Mindful Pursuit of Student-Athlete Thriving , Andrew Augustus

Working with Community Partners in WV: Learning How to Frame Health Equity in Physical Activity Interventions , Karly Marie Casanave-Phillips

How do college student-athletes’ understanding and expectations of mindfulness and self-compassion change through an intervention? , Blake Costalupes

“Building the Roots”: A Delphi Study Examining the Aims of a Multicultural Competency Graduate Course in Sport and Exercise Psychology , Matthew Paul Gonzalez

Exploring the Conceptualizations and Utilizations of Learning Theories in Sport Settings , Kevin R. Lou

Drivers of Change in Mindfulness- and Acceptance-Based Interventions with Athletes: Investigating the Influence of Dosage, Readiness, and Attitudes , Thomas O. Minkler

Theses/Dissertations from 2022 2022

Short-Term International Sport for Development and Peace Programs: A Retrospective Analysis and Critique Informed by Stakeholders’ Perspectives in a Two-Year Follow-Up , Adam Hansell

Theses/Dissertations from 2021 2021

'Deporte y Cambio Social': Women's Empowerment SDP Program in Mexico , Sofia Espana Perez

A Qualitative Study of College Athletes’ Experiences of the COVID-19 Pandemic , Carra Johnson

Meeting the Mental Health Needs of Student-Athletes: A Descriptive Study of Practitioners and their Perspectives , William C. Way III

Theses/Dissertations from 2020 2020

A Phenomenological Photovoice Exploration of Female Exercisers’ Experiences of their Body in Fitness Center Environments , Katherine E. Fairhurst

Exploring the Relationship Between Hardiness and Performance in Collegiate Baseball Players , Kevin R. Lou

Using the social ecological model to build a path analysis model of physical activity in a sample of active US college students , Jonathan J. Stewart

"Yo, I Like Your Walk-Up Song": Music Integration in Professional Baseball Gamedays , Seth Swary

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

Stigma, Attitudes, and Intentions to Seek Mental Health Services in College Student-Athletes , Robert C. Hilliard M.S.

Supporting The Injured Athlete: Coaches’ Perspectives On Providing Social Support , Stefanee Opal Maurice

Being Mindful of Perfectionism and Performance Among Athletes in a Judged Sport , Erika D. Van Dyke

Theses/Dissertations from 2018 2018

Competitive Aggressiveness, Anger, and the Experience of Provocation in Collegiate Athletes , Michael E. Berrebi

Functional Movement Screen Composite Scores for Collegiate Field Club Sport Athletes at One University , Daniel Camillone

Exploring the Use of Sport as a Platform for Health Promotion with Youth in Africa: A Scoping Review. , Adam H. Hansell

Use of Four Predictive Screening Variables for Determination of Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction in Adolescent Soccer Athletes , Brian Hanson

Coaching life skills through sport: An application of the teaching personal and social responsibility model to youth sport in eSwatini , Zenzi Huysmans

Psychosocial Development of Junior Hockey Players , Alexander John Sturges

Theses/Dissertations from 2017 2017

Players' Responses to and Primary Caregivers' Perceptions of Authoritarian and Authoritative Coaching in the Inner-City , Renee Brown

Examining the Impact of a Short-Term Psychological Skills Training Program on Dancers' Coping Skills, Pain Appraisals, and Injuries , Leigh A. Bryant

Changes in Athletes' Anxiety, Anger, and Impulsiveness following Concussion , Megan Byrd

Development of Ethics Education Guidelines for Undergraduate Athletic Training Education Programs , Kaitlynn Cullen

Using a Multi-Omic Approach to Investigate a Diet Intervention in Young Adults at Risk of Disease , Oluremi Ariel Famodu

Approaches to Supervision in Sport Psychology and their Influences on Initial Supervisees' Professional Development , Janaina Lima Fogaca

High School Coaches' Experiences with Openly Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Athletes , Meghan K. Halbrook

#Physical Activity: Influencing Parent Behavior Change Through Social Media , Adam Keath

The Effects of an Exercise and Kinesiotape Intervention on Forward HeadRounded Shoulder Posture and Scapular Dyskinesis , Lucas Klawiter

Student-Athletes' Experiences with Racial Microaggressions in Sport: A Foucauldian Discourse Analysis , Sae-Mi Lee

The Effects of a Six Week Lumbopelvic Control and Balance Training Program in High School Basketball Players , Margaret Long

Thrombospondin-1 and Cd47 Mediate Peripheral Microvascular Dysfunction Following Pulmonary Exposure to Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes , W. Kyle Mandler

The Investigation of Motor Primitives During Human Reaching Movements and the Quantification of Post-Stroke Motor Impairment , Erienne Virginia Olesh

Theses/Dissertations from 2016 2016

The Effect of Lower Extremity Asymmetries on Low Back and Lower Extremity Pain with Pregnancy , Erica Casto

Do Physical Activity, Sedentary Behaviors, and Nutrition Affect Healthy Weight in Middle School Students in an Appalachian Community? Children's Health Opportunities Involving Coordinated Efforts in Schools (CHOICES) Project , Kibum Cho

How Far is Too Far? Understanding Identity and Overconformity in Collegiate Wrestlers , Ashley M. Coker-Cranney

An Examination of Collegiate Athletes', Undergraduate Sport Science Majors', and Athlete Majors' Intent to Pursue Collegiate Coaching as a Career , Lauren Deckelbaum

A preliminary exploration of the application of self-compassion within the context of sport injury , Zenzi Huysmans

Psychosocial Predictors of Resilience in a Military Sample , Anna-Marie C. Jaeschke

Evaluating the Efficacy of Various Modalities to Improve Arterial Stiffness , Corey Moore

The Influence Over Time of Abdominal Strength Changes on Gluteus Maximus Strength , Taylor M. Opperhauser

Use of a Functional Movement Screening Tool to Determine Injury Risk in Collegiate Acrobatics and Tumbling Athletes , Sara E. Spencer

Adherence to Sport Rehabilitation , Kjersti A. Traaen

Theses/Dissertations from 2015 2015

Surgery and Rehabilitation Treatment Options for Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injuries of the Elbow for Baseball Athletes: A Systematic Review , Amanda M. Damm

What elite men's collegiate tennis coaches look for in recruits and how they assess preferred player characteristics , Brandyn H. Fisher

The Influences of Participation in an Elite Paralympic Military Program on the Self-Identity of Active Duty Service Members with Acquired Disabilities , Lindsay M. Hammond

The Influence of Physical Activity on International Students' Cross-Cultural Adjustment: A Qualitative Longitudinal Study , Shuang Li

Becoming a Mindful Sport Psychology Consultant: Defining, Developing, and Integrating Mindfulness into Practice , Michelle M. McAlarnen

Theses/Dissertations from 2014 2014

Certified Athletic Trainers' Abilities to Identify and Refer Athletes with Psychological Symptoms , Marc L. Cormier

Usage of Evidence Based Medicine Resources in Clinically Practicing Athletic Trainers , Kenneth G. Faldetta

Division I College Student-Athlete Career Situation and Attitudes toward Career Counseling , Adrian J. Ferrera

An Evaluation of State Employees' Preferences for Worksite-based Physical Activity, Nutrition, and Stress Management Programs , Peter Kadushin

The use of joint mobilization on mechanical instability deficits for a lateral ankle sprain: A Systematic Review , Kathleen M. Kerecman

The Effect of a Six Week Functional Training Program on Performance Outcomes in Softball , Zachary M. Mohondro

Sport Psychology "App"lication: NCAA Coaches' Preferences for a Mental Training Mobile App , Raymond F. Prior

"It's not just your dad and it's not just your coach..." The dual-role relationship in female tennis players , Olivier N. Schmid

Stoking the Flames of Wellness: An Exploration of Factors that Influence West Virginia Firefighters' Health Behaviors , Chelsea B. Wooding

Theses/Dissertations from 2013 2013

The Influence of Gender on the Peer Leadership-Cohesion Relationship , Michael E. Berrebi

Stressors and Coping Behaviors of Female Peer Leaders Participating in College Club Sports , Leigh A. Bryant

An Exploration of Master's Degree Field Study and Teacher and Student Behavior in P.E , William J. Davis

An Exploratory Investigation of Baseball Coaches' Attitudes and Experiences With Sport Psychology , Jesse D. Michel

Theses/Dissertations from 2012 2012

Using Concept Mapping to Identify Action Steps for Physical Activity Promotion in Cancer Treatment , Sean J. Fitzpatrick

Theses/Dissertations from 2011 2011

At-Risk Student-Athletes and Academic Achievement: Experiences of Successful and Unsuccessful First Year Collegiate Football Players , Samantha J. Monda

A Survey of Bariatric Surgical Patients' Experiences with Behavioral and Psychological Services , Jessica C. Peacock

A tailored wellness intervention for college students using internet-based technology , Alessandro Quartiroli

Theses/Dissertations from 2010 2010

The effects of a walking intervention on self-efficacy for coping with cancer and quality of life among cancer patients during treatment , Sean J. Fitzpatrick

Validity and reliability of accelerometers for examining vertical jump performance , Ryan M. Ruben

Theses/Dissertations from 2009 2009

The evaluation of a nutrition education and fitness program with a contest component among college students using the RE-AIM framework , Michelle L. Bartlett

An individualized multimodal mental skills intervention for college athletes undergoing injury rehabilitation , Jamie L. Shapiro

The role of emotional intelligence on coach-athlete relationships and motivational climate , Eric E. Steege

Theses/Dissertations from 2008 2008

Effectiveness of an educational intervention on the attitudes toward sport psychology of athletic training students , Damien Clement

Impact of a physical activity intervention for weight loss: A qualitative analysis of participant perceptions and expectations , Jessica Anne Creasy

Leadership and organizational culture transformation in professional sport , Joe Frontiera

Motivation in sport: Bridging historical and contemporary theory through a qualitative approach , Daniel J. Leidl

Theses/Dissertations from 2007 2007

Impact of a tailored intervention on coaches' attitudes and use of sport psychology services , Rebecca Zakrajsek

Theses/Dissertations from 2006 2006

Does physical disability truly create impairment in adjustment to college life? , Jennifer R. Hurst

The transtheoretical model and psychological skills training: Application and implications with elite female athletes , Linda Ann Keeler

Theses/Dissertations from 2005 2005

The role of apoptosis in muscle remodeling , Parco Ming-fai Siu

• Collections
• Disciplines
• WVU Libraries
• WVU Research Office
• WVU Research Commons
• Open Access @ WVU
• Digital Publishing Institute

Advanced Search

• Notify me via email or RSS

Author Corner

Home | About | FAQ | My Account | Accessibility Statement

Privacy Copyright

• USF Research
• USF Libraries

Digital Commons @ USF > Theses and Dissertations

Physical Education and Exercise Science Theses and Dissertations

Theses/dissertations from 2021 2021.

Warming Up and Cooling Down: Perceptions and Behaviors Associated with Aerobic Exercise , Balea J. Schumacher

Theses/Dissertations from 2020 2020

An Examination of Changes in Muscle Thickness, Isometric Strength, and Body Water Throughout the Menstrual Cycle , Tayla E. Kuehne

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

Psychological Responses to High-Intensity Interval Training Exercise: A Comparison of Ungraded Running and Graded Walking , Abby Fleming

Theses/Dissertations from 2018 2018

The Effects of Music Choice on Perceptual and Physiological Responses to Treadmill Exercise , Taylor A. Shimshock

Theses/Dissertations from 2016 2016

The Effect of Exercise Order on Body Fat Loss During Concurrent Training , Tonya Lee Davis-Miller

Anti-Fat Attitudes and Weight Bias Internalization: An Investigation of How BMI Impacts Perceptions, Opinions and Attitudes , Laurie Schrider

Theses/Dissertations from 2014 2014

The Effect of Music Cadence on Step Frequency in the Recreational Runner , Micaela A. Galosky

The Hypertrophic Effects of Practical Vascular Blood Flow Restriction Training , John Francis O'halloran

Theses/Dissertations from 2013 2013

The Effects of Exercise Modality on State Body Image , Elizabeth Anne Hubbard

Perceptual Responses to High-Intensity Interval Training in Overweight and Sedentary Individuals , Nicholas Martinez

Comparisons of acute neuromuscular fatigue and recovery after maximal effort strength training using powerlifts , Nicholas Todd Theilen

Theses/Dissertations from 2012 2012

The Impact of Continuous and Discontinuous Cycle Exercise on Affect: An Examination of the Dual-Mode Model , Sam Greeley

Systematic review of core muscle electromyographic activity during physical fitness exercises , Jason Martuscello

Theses/Dissertations from 2011 2011

The Effect of Unexpected Exercise Duration on Rating of Perceived Exertion in an Untrained, Sedentary Population , Lisa M. Giblin

The Effect of Various Carbohydrate Supplements on Postprandial Blood Glucose Response in Female Soccer Players , Nina Pannoni

Middle School Physical Education Programs: A Comparison of Moderate to Vigorous Physical Activity in Sports Game Play , Marcia Ann Patience

The Effects of Pre-Exercise Carbohydrate Supplementation on Resistance Training Performance During an Acute Resistance Training Session , Kelly Raposo

Theses/Dissertations from 2010 2010

Effects of Fat-Free and 2% Chocolate Milk on Strength and Body Composition Following Resistance Training , Ashley T. Forsyth

Relationship Between Muscular Strength Testing to Dynamic Muscular Performance in Division One American Football Players , Johnathan Fuentes

Effects of Ingesting Fat Free and Low Fat Chocolate Milk After Resistance Training on Exercise Performance , Breanna Myers

Theses/Dissertations from 2009 2009

Effects of a Commercially Available Energy Drink on Anaerobic Performance , Jason J. Downing

The Impact of Wearable Weights on the Cardiovascular and Metabolic Responses to Treadmill Walking , Kristine M. Fallon

Six Fifth Grade Students Experiences Participating in Active Gaming during Physical Eduction Classes , Lisa Witherspoon Hansen

The impact of wearable weights on perceptual responses to treadmill walking , Ashley T. Kuczynski

The Preference of Protein Powders Among Adult Males and Females: A Protein Powder Taste Study , Joshua Manter

Caloric Expenditure and Substrate Utilization in Underwater Treadmill Running Versus Land-Based Treadmill Running , Courtney Schaal

Theses/Dissertations from 2008 2008

A Survey of NCAA Division 1 Strength and Conditioning Coaches- Characteristics and Opinions , Jeremy Powers

Theses/Dissertations from 2007 2007

Perceptions of group exercise participants based on body type, appearance and attractiveness of the instructor , Jennifer Mears

Theses/Dissertations from 2006 2006

Be active! An examination of social support's role in individual vs. team competition in worksite health promotion , Lauren Kriz

Advanced Search

• Email Notifications and RSS
• All Collections
• USF Faculty Publications
• Open Access Journals
• Conferences and Events
• Theses and Dissertations
• Textbooks Collection

Useful Links

• Rights Information
• SelectedWorks
• Submit Research

Home | About | Help | My Account | Accessibility Statement | Language and Diversity Statements

Privacy Copyright

Home > Communities > College of Health Sciences > Exercise and Sport Science > ESS_ETD

Exercise and Sport Science Theses and Dissertations

Theses/dissertations from 2023 2023.

A Quantification Of The Metabolic Demand Wrought By Explosive Ordinance Disposal Load Carriage , Gage Cousineau

Theses/Dissertations from 2022 2022

The Effects Of External Load And Body Composition On The Sebt In Marching Band Performers , Alexander Alvarez

Theses/Dissertations from 2020 2020

Comparing Shoulder Manual Muscle Testing With Scapular Retraction And Core Activation , Kyrsten Henry

Efficacy of pain scales in athletic populations and paired with aglometric measurements , Elisabeth Anne Ohrnberger

Body Composition Assessment Results And Predicting Injury Patterns In Collegiate Musicians , Ellen Reinhold

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

Athletic Identity, Need Satisfaction, and Burnout in Collegiate Athletes , Rachel Brooke Daniels

The Effects Of A 40-Minute Bout Of Aerobic Exercise On State Anxiety In College Age Individuals , Rachael Dozier

Effects Of Alpha-GPC and Huperzine-A On Short Term Memory, Anaerobic Power Output, Post Exhaustion Compared To Caffeine And Placebo In Healthy College Age Students , John P. Isaacs

The Small-Town NFL Player , BoDene Blare Pinz

Post Surgical Outcomes Following Limited-Open Carpal Tunnel Release or Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release , Keeley Shaye Smith

Theses/Dissertations from 2018 2018

The Acute Effects Of Alpha-Gpc On Hand Grip Strength, Jump Height, Power Output, Mood, And Reaction-Time In Recreationally Trained, College-Aged Individuals , Josey Lucas Cruse

Use Of Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry Measurements To Evaluate Total Body Volume When Compared To Air Displacement Plethysmography For Evaluating Body Composition In A Four Compartment Model , Lee Doernte

The Link between Overweight, Obesity, and Perceived Exercise Benefits and Barriers among College Students , Alexandra Szarabajko

Theses/Dissertations from 2017 2017

The Effects Of Depth Jump Implementation Of Sprint Performance In Collegiate And Club Sport Athletes , Ryan Bean

The Effects Of Caffeine Supplementation When Manipulating The Time Of Ingestion Prior To Simulated Rugby Union Activity , Zachary William Bell

Locomotor Skill Development in Response to an Electronic Visual Exercise System in Children with Sensory Impairments , Sara Johnson

The Effect Of Practical Blood Flow Restriction Training On Body Composition And Muscular Strength In College-Aged Individuals , Zachary R. Salyers

Theses/Dissertations from 2015 2015

The Relationship Between Personality Type And Exercise Motivation , Kayla Michelle Bowman

The relationship between coaching environment and athlete attributional style , Una Britton

The Effects on Acute Power Production Enhancement and Maintenance due to Pre-workout Supplementation in Recreationally trained College Aged Males. , Mark Travis Byrd

Educational Professionals' Current Knowledge of Concussions And Return To Learn Implementation Practice , Michelle Kuzma

Effects Of A Six-Week Functional Training Program On Fitness And Body Composition Of Fire Science Majors , Kristen Anne LeBrun

Sedentary Behaviors and Physical Activity in Relation to Class Standing in University Students , Codie Monhollen

Theses/Dissertations from 2014 2014

The Effects of Active Recovery during High Intensity Resistance Training on Lactate Clearance in Collegiate Athletes , Christopher Alexander Perry

Physical, Emotional, and Competitive Aggression Tendencies in Contact and Non-Contact Collegiate Athletes , Samyra Rose Safraoui

Theses/Dissertations from 2013 2013

Relationship Between Personality And Exercise Motivation In Weight Loss , Leanna Beth Bowles

The Effects of Fatigue on a Dual-Task Postural Control Measure , Allisha R. Guzdial

Relationship Between a Proxy of Prenatal Testosterone (2D:4D) and Determinants of Endurance Running Performance , Simon D. Holzapfel

Perceptions Of Athletic Training Services Of Japanese Collegiate Student Athletes , Jun Matsuno

Theses/Dissertations from 2012 2012

An Eccentric Intervention of the Flexor-Pronator Mass To Impact Overhead Throwing Distance and Velocity , Ricker Stanton Adkins

• Collections
• Disciplines

Advanced Search

• Notify me via email or RSS

Author Corner

• Author Rights/Copyright
• Department of Exercise and Sports Science

Home | About | FAQ | My Account | Accessibility Statement

Privacy Copyright

How To Write A Dissertation Or Thesis

8 straightforward steps to craft an a-grade dissertation.

By: Derek Jansen (MBA) Expert Reviewed By: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | June 2020

Writing a dissertation or thesis is not a simple task. It takes time, energy and a lot of will power to get you across the finish line. It’s not easy – but it doesn’t necessarily need to be a painful process. If you understand the big-picture process of how to write a dissertation or thesis, your research journey will be a lot smoother.  

In this post, I’m going to outline the big-picture process of how to write a high-quality dissertation or thesis, without losing your mind along the way. If you’re just starting your research, this post is perfect for you. Alternatively, if you’ve already submitted your proposal, this article which covers how to structure a dissertation might be more helpful.

How To Write A Dissertation: 8 Steps

• Clearly understand what a dissertation (or thesis) is
• Find a unique and valuable research topic
• Craft a convincing research proposal
• Write up a strong introduction chapter
• Review the existing literature and compile a literature review
• Design a rigorous research strategy and undertake your own research
• Present the findings of your research
• Draw a conclusion and discuss the implications

Step 1: Understand exactly what a dissertation is

This probably sounds like a no-brainer, but all too often, students come to us for help with their research and the underlying issue is that they don’t fully understand what a dissertation (or thesis) actually is.

So, what is a dissertation?

At its simplest, a dissertation or thesis is a formal piece of research , reflecting the standard research process . But what is the standard research process, you ask? The research process involves 4 key steps:

• Ask a very specific, well-articulated question (s) (your research topic)
• See what other researchers have said about it (if they’ve already answered it)
• If they haven’t answered it adequately, undertake your own data collection and analysis in a scientifically rigorous fashion
• Answer your original question(s), based on your analysis findings

In short, the research process is simply about asking and answering questions in a systematic fashion . This probably sounds pretty obvious, but people often think they’ve done “research”, when in fact what they have done is:

• Started with a vague, poorly articulated question
• Not taken the time to see what research has already been done regarding the question
• Collected data and opinions that support their gut and undertaken a flimsy analysis
• Drawn a shaky conclusion, based on that analysis

If you want to see the perfect example of this in action, look out for the next Facebook post where someone claims they’ve done “research”… All too often, people consider reading a few blog posts to constitute research. Its no surprise then that what they end up with is an opinion piece, not research. Okay, okay – I’ll climb off my soapbox now.

The key takeaway here is that a dissertation (or thesis) is a formal piece of research, reflecting the research process. It’s not an opinion piece , nor a place to push your agenda or try to convince someone of your position. Writing a good dissertation involves asking a question and taking a systematic, rigorous approach to answering it.

If you understand this and are comfortable leaving your opinions or preconceived ideas at the door, you’re already off to a good start!

Step 2: Find a unique, valuable research topic

As we saw, the first step of the research process is to ask a specific, well-articulated question. In other words, you need to find a research topic that asks a specific question or set of questions (these are called research questions ). Sounds easy enough, right? All you’ve got to do is identify a question or two and you’ve got a winning research topic. Well, not quite…

A good dissertation or thesis topic has a few important attributes. Specifically, a solid research topic should be:

Let’s take a closer look at these:

Attribute #1: Clear

Your research topic needs to be crystal clear about what you’re planning to research, what you want to know, and within what context. There shouldn’t be any ambiguity or vagueness about what you’ll research.

Here’s an example of a clearly articulated research topic:

An analysis of consumer-based factors influencing organisational trust in British low-cost online equity brokerage firms.

As you can see in the example, its crystal clear what will be analysed (factors impacting organisational trust), amongst who (consumers) and in what context (British low-cost equity brokerage firms, based online).

Need a helping hand?

Attribute #2:   Unique

Your research should be asking a question(s) that hasn’t been asked before, or that hasn’t been asked in a specific context (for example, in a specific country or industry).

For example, sticking organisational trust topic above, it’s quite likely that organisational trust factors in the UK have been investigated before, but the context (online low-cost equity brokerages) could make this research unique. Therefore, the context makes this research original.

One caveat when using context as the basis for originality – you need to have a good reason to suspect that your findings in this context might be different from the existing research – otherwise, there’s no reason to warrant researching it.

Attribute #3: Important

Simply asking a unique or original question is not enough – the question needs to create value. In other words, successfully answering your research questions should provide some value to the field of research or the industry. You can’t research something just to satisfy your curiosity. It needs to make some form of contribution either to research or industry.

For example, researching the factors influencing consumer trust would create value by enabling businesses to tailor their operations and marketing to leverage factors that promote trust. In other words, it would have a clear benefit to industry.

So, how do you go about finding a unique and valuable research topic? We explain that in detail in this video post – How To Find A Research Topic . Yeah, we’ve got you covered 😊

Step 3: Write a convincing research proposal

Once you’ve pinned down a high-quality research topic, the next step is to convince your university to let you research it. No matter how awesome you think your topic is, it still needs to get the rubber stamp before you can move forward with your research. The research proposal is the tool you’ll use for this job.

So, what’s in a research proposal?

The main “job” of a research proposal is to convince your university, advisor or committee that your research topic is worthy of approval. But convince them of what? Well, this varies from university to university, but generally, they want to see that:

• You have a clearly articulated, unique and important topic (this might sound familiar…)
• You’ve done some initial reading of the existing literature relevant to your topic (i.e. a literature review)
• You have a provisional plan in terms of how you will collect data and analyse it (i.e. a methodology)

At the proposal stage, it’s (generally) not expected that you’ve extensively reviewed the existing literature , but you will need to show that you’ve done enough reading to identify a clear gap for original (unique) research. Similarly, they generally don’t expect that you have a rock-solid research methodology mapped out, but you should have an idea of whether you’ll be undertaking qualitative or quantitative analysis , and how you’ll collect your data (we’ll discuss this in more detail later).

Long story short – don’t stress about having every detail of your research meticulously thought out at the proposal stage – this will develop as you progress through your research. However, you do need to show that you’ve “done your homework” and that your research is worthy of approval .

So, how do you go about crafting a high-quality, convincing proposal? We cover that in detail in this video post – How To Write A Top-Class Research Proposal . We’ve also got a video walkthrough of two proposal examples here .

Step 4: Craft a strong introduction chapter

Once your proposal’s been approved, its time to get writing your actual dissertation or thesis! The good news is that if you put the time into crafting a high-quality proposal, you’ve already got a head start on your first three chapters – introduction, literature review and methodology – as you can use your proposal as the basis for these.

Handy sidenote – our free dissertation & thesis template is a great way to speed up your dissertation writing journey.

What’s the introduction chapter all about?

The purpose of the introduction chapter is to set the scene for your research (dare I say, to introduce it…) so that the reader understands what you’ll be researching and why it’s important. In other words, it covers the same ground as the research proposal in that it justifies your research topic.

What goes into the introduction chapter?

This can vary slightly between universities and degrees, but generally, the introduction chapter will include the following:

• A brief background to the study, explaining the overall area of research
• A problem statement , explaining what the problem is with the current state of research (in other words, where the knowledge gap exists)
• Your research questions – in other words, the specific questions your study will seek to answer (based on the knowledge gap)
• The significance of your study – in other words, why it’s important and how its findings will be useful in the world

As you can see, this all about explaining the “what” and the “why” of your research (as opposed to the “how”). So, your introduction chapter is basically the salesman of your study, “selling” your research to the first-time reader and (hopefully) getting them interested to read more.

How do I write the introduction chapter, you ask? We cover that in detail in this post .

Step 5: Undertake an in-depth literature review

As I mentioned earlier, you’ll need to do some initial review of the literature in Steps 2 and 3 to find your research gap and craft a convincing research proposal – but that’s just scratching the surface. Once you reach the literature review stage of your dissertation or thesis, you need to dig a lot deeper into the existing research and write up a comprehensive literature review chapter.

What’s the literature review all about?

There are two main stages in the literature review process:

Literature Review Step 1: Reading up

The first stage is for you to deep dive into the existing literature (journal articles, textbook chapters, industry reports, etc) to gain an in-depth understanding of the current state of research regarding your topic. While you don’t need to read every single article, you do need to ensure that you cover all literature that is related to your core research questions, and create a comprehensive catalogue of that literature , which you’ll use in the next step.

Reading and digesting all the relevant literature is a time consuming and intellectually demanding process. Many students underestimate just how much work goes into this step, so make sure that you allocate a good amount of time for this when planning out your research. Thankfully, there are ways to fast track the process – be sure to check out this article covering how to read journal articles quickly .

Literature Review Step 2: Writing up

Once you’ve worked through the literature and digested it all, you’ll need to write up your literature review chapter. Many students make the mistake of thinking that the literature review chapter is simply a summary of what other researchers have said. While this is partly true, a literature review is much more than just a summary. To pull off a good literature review chapter, you’ll need to achieve at least 3 things:

• You need to synthesise the existing research , not just summarise it. In other words, you need to show how different pieces of theory fit together, what’s agreed on by researchers, what’s not.
• You need to highlight a research gap that your research is going to fill. In other words, you’ve got to outline the problem so that your research topic can provide a solution.
• You need to use the existing research to inform your methodology and approach to your own research design. For example, you might use questions or Likert scales from previous studies in your your own survey design .

As you can see, a good literature review is more than just a summary of the published research. It’s the foundation on which your own research is built, so it deserves a lot of love and attention. Take the time to craft a comprehensive literature review with a suitable structure .

But, how do I actually write the literature review chapter, you ask? We cover that in detail in this video post .

Step 6: Carry out your own research

Once you’ve completed your literature review and have a sound understanding of the existing research, its time to develop your own research (finally!). You’ll design this research specifically so that you can find the answers to your unique research question.

There are two steps here – designing your research strategy and executing on it:

1 – Design your research strategy

The first step is to design your research strategy and craft a methodology chapter . I won’t get into the technicalities of the methodology chapter here, but in simple terms, this chapter is about explaining the “how” of your research. If you recall, the introduction and literature review chapters discussed the “what” and the “why”, so it makes sense that the next point to cover is the “how” –that’s what the methodology chapter is all about.

In this section, you’ll need to make firm decisions about your research design. This includes things like:

• Your research philosophy (e.g. positivism or interpretivism )
• Your overall methodology (e.g. qualitative , quantitative or mixed methods)
• Your data collection strategy (e.g. interviews , focus groups, surveys)
• Your data analysis strategy (e.g. content analysis , correlation analysis, regression)

If these words have got your head spinning, don’t worry! We’ll explain these in plain language in other posts. It’s not essential that you understand the intricacies of research design (yet!). The key takeaway here is that you’ll need to make decisions about how you’ll design your own research, and you’ll need to describe (and justify) your decisions in your methodology chapter.

2 – Execute: Collect and analyse your data

Once you’ve worked out your research design, you’ll put it into action and start collecting your data. This might mean undertaking interviews, hosting an online survey or any other data collection method. Data collection can take quite a bit of time (especially if you host in-person interviews), so be sure to factor sufficient time into your project plan for this. Oftentimes, things don’t go 100% to plan (for example, you don’t get as many survey responses as you hoped for), so bake a little extra time into your budget here.

Once you’ve collected your data, you’ll need to do some data preparation before you can sink your teeth into the analysis. For example:

• If you carry out interviews or focus groups, you’ll need to transcribe your audio data to text (i.e. a Word document).
• If you collect quantitative survey data, you’ll need to clean up your data and get it into the right format for whichever analysis software you use (for example, SPSS, R or STATA).

Once you’ve completed your data prep, you’ll undertake your analysis, using the techniques that you described in your methodology. Depending on what you find in your analysis, you might also do some additional forms of analysis that you hadn’t planned for. For example, you might see something in the data that raises new questions or that requires clarification with further analysis.

The type(s) of analysis that you’ll use depend entirely on the nature of your research and your research questions. For example:

• If your research if exploratory in nature, you’ll often use qualitative analysis techniques .
• If your research is confirmatory in nature, you’ll often use quantitative analysis techniques
• If your research involves a mix of both, you might use a mixed methods approach

Again, if these words have got your head spinning, don’t worry! We’ll explain these concepts and techniques in other posts. The key takeaway is simply that there’s no “one size fits all” for research design and methodology – it all depends on your topic, your research questions and your data. So, don’t be surprised if your study colleagues take a completely different approach to yours.

Step 7: Present your findings

Once you’ve completed your analysis, it’s time to present your findings (finally!). In a dissertation or thesis, you’ll typically present your findings in two chapters – the results chapter and the discussion chapter .

What’s the difference between the results chapter and the discussion chapter?

While these two chapters are similar, the results chapter generally just presents the processed data neatly and clearly without interpretation, while the discussion chapter explains the story the data are telling  – in other words, it provides your interpretation of the results.

For example, if you were researching the factors that influence consumer trust, you might have used a quantitative approach to identify the relationship between potential factors (e.g. perceived integrity and competence of the organisation) and consumer trust. In this case:

• Your results chapter would just present the results of the statistical tests. For example, correlation results or differences between groups. In other words, the processed numbers.
• Your discussion chapter would explain what the numbers mean in relation to your research question(s). For example, Factor 1 has a weak relationship with consumer trust, while Factor 2 has a strong relationship.

Depending on the university and degree, these two chapters (results and discussion) are sometimes merged into one , so be sure to check with your institution what their preference is. Regardless of the chapter structure, this section is about presenting the findings of your research in a clear, easy to understand fashion.

Importantly, your discussion here needs to link back to your research questions (which you outlined in the introduction or literature review chapter). In other words, it needs to answer the key questions you asked (or at least attempt to answer them).

For example, if we look at the sample research topic:

In this case, the discussion section would clearly outline which factors seem to have a noteworthy influence on organisational trust. By doing so, they are answering the overarching question and fulfilling the purpose of the research .

For more information about the results chapter , check out this post for qualitative studies and this post for quantitative studies .

Step 8: The Final Step Draw a conclusion and discuss the implications

Last but not least, you’ll need to wrap up your research with the conclusion chapter . In this chapter, you’ll bring your research full circle by highlighting the key findings of your study and explaining what the implications of these findings are.

What exactly are key findings? The key findings are those findings which directly relate to your original research questions and overall research objectives (which you discussed in your introduction chapter). The implications, on the other hand, explain what your findings mean for industry, or for research in your area.

Sticking with the consumer trust topic example, the conclusion might look something like this:

Key findings

This study set out to identify which factors influence consumer-based trust in British low-cost online equity brokerage firms. The results suggest that the following factors have a large impact on consumer trust:

While the following factors have a very limited impact on consumer trust:

Notably, within the 25-30 age groups, Factors E had a noticeably larger impact, which may be explained by…

Implications

The findings having noteworthy implications for British low-cost online equity brokers. Specifically:

The large impact of Factors X and Y implies that brokers need to consider….

The limited impact of Factor E implies that brokers need to…

As you can see, the conclusion chapter is basically explaining the “what” (what your study found) and the “so what?” (what the findings mean for the industry or research). This brings the study full circle and closes off the document.

Let’s recap – how to write a dissertation or thesis

You’re still with me? Impressive! I know that this post was a long one, but hopefully you’ve learnt a thing or two about how to write a dissertation or thesis, and are now better equipped to start your own research.

To recap, the 8 steps to writing a quality dissertation (or thesis) are as follows:

• Understand what a dissertation (or thesis) is – a research project that follows the research process.
• Find a unique (original) and important research topic
• Craft a convincing dissertation or thesis research proposal
• Write a clear, compelling introduction chapter
• Undertake a thorough review of the existing research and write up a literature review
• Undertake your own research
• Present and interpret your findings

Once you’ve wrapped up the core chapters, all that’s typically left is the abstract , reference list and appendices. As always, be sure to check with your university if they have any additional requirements in terms of structure or content.  

Psst... there’s more!

This post was based on one of our popular Research Bootcamps . If you're working on a research project, you'll definitely want to check this out ...

You Might Also Like:

20 Comments

thankfull >>>this is very useful

Thank you, it was really helpful

unquestionably, this amazing simplified way of teaching. Really , I couldn’t find in the literature words that fully explicit my great thanks to you. However, I could only say thanks a-lot.

Great to hear that – thanks for the feedback. Good luck writing your dissertation/thesis.

This is the most comprehensive explanation of how to write a dissertation. Many thanks for sharing it free of charge.

Very rich presentation. Thank you

Thanks Derek Jansen|GRADCOACH, I find it very useful guide to arrange my activities and proceed to research!

Thank you so much for such a marvelous teaching .I am so convinced that am going to write a comprehensive and a distinct masters dissertation

It is an amazing comprehensive explanation

This was straightforward. Thank you!

I can say that your explanations are simple and enlightening – understanding what you have done here is easy for me. Could you write more about the different types of research methods specific to the three methodologies: quan, qual and MM. I look forward to interacting with this website more in the future.

Thanks for the feedback and suggestions 🙂

Hello, your write ups is quite educative. However, l have challenges in going about my research questions which is below; *Building the enablers of organisational growth through effective governance and purposeful leadership.*

Very educating.

Just listening to the name of the dissertation makes the student nervous. As writing a top-quality dissertation is a difficult task as it is a lengthy topic, requires a lot of research and understanding and is usually around 10,000 to 15000 words. Sometimes due to studies, unbalanced workload or lack of research and writing skill students look for dissertation submission from professional writers.

Thank you 💕😊 very much. I was confused but your comprehensive explanation has cleared my doubts of ever presenting a good thesis. Thank you.

thank you so much, that was so useful

Hi. Where is the excel spread sheet ark?

could you please help me look at your thesis paper to enable me to do the portion that has to do with the specification

my topic is “the impact of domestic revenue mobilization.

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Print Friendly

Managing the Dissertation Writing Process

Materials from workshop.

• Slides:  https://z.umn.edu/dissworkshopslides
• Revision Memo:  https://z.umn.edu/revisionmemo
• Dissertation Analysis handout (PDF)
• "How to Read like a Writer" (PDF) by Mike Bunn (in  Writing spaces : readings on writing Vol 2 )

Finding Dissertations

• Dissertations and Theses Global This link opens in a new window Collection of dissertations and theses from around the world, offering millions of works from thousands of universities. Each year hundreds of thousands of works are added. Full-text coverage spans from 1743 to the present, with citation coverage dating back to 1637.
• Google Scholar (Setup connection to get to PDFs) Use Google Scholar to find articles from academic publishers, professional societies, research institutes, and scholarly repositories from colleges and universities. If you are using from off-campus access, change the "Library Settings" to University of Minnesota Twin Cities. Look for the "FindIt@U of M Twin Cities" links in your Google Scholar search results to access full text and PDFs. View this tutorial to learn how to go from a general idea to a very precise set of results of journal articles and scholarly materials.
• University Digital Conservancy at the University of Minnesota A digital archive of M.A. and PhD theses at the University of Minnesota. The collection in this institutional repository can also be searched by keyword, date, authors and majors.

Sample of project management tools

Tool considerations:

• Devices -- “apps” vs. Laptop 
• Collaboration
• Fewer features vs. lots of features
• Learning curve
• Security/privacy 

More Options

• Open Project:  https://www.openproject.org/
• Redbooth:  https://redbooth.com/
• Notion:  https://www.notion.so/
• Freedcamp:  https://freedcamp.com/
• Smartsheet:  https://www.smartsheet.com/
• Click up:  https://clickup.com/
• Kanboard:  https://kanboard.org/

Student Writing Support from the Center for Writing

Student Writing Support (SWS) offers collaborative one-to-one writing consultations to help student writers develop confidence and effective writing strategies. SWS offers three kinds of consultations:

• walk-in consultations in 15  Nicholson Hall
• appointments in  Zoom
• appointments in  SWS.online

Our writing consultants will listen to your goals and concerns, read and respond to your written work, pose questions that help you clarify and articulate your ideas, and affirm the experiences and abilities you bring to your writing. We value your life experiences and languages, and we seek to provide a supportive space for you to share and develop your voice.

Sample of online books

• Restarting stalled research by Paul C. Rosenblatt ISBN: 9781483393551 Publication Date: 2016 Written for researchers and graduate students writing dissertations, this unique book offers detailed advice and perspective on many issues that can stall a research project and reveals what can be done to successfully resume it. Using a direct yet conversational style, author Paul C. Rosenblatt draws on his decades of experience to cover many diverse topics. The text guides readers through challenges such as clarifying the end goal of a project; resolving common and not-so-common writing problems; dealing with rejection and revision decisions; handling difficulties involving dissertation advisers and committee members; coping with issues of researcher motivation or self-esteem; and much more.

Get materials we don't own or from our print collection (Interlibrary Loan & Document Delivery)

• InterLibrary Loan & Digital Delivery Interlibrary Loan (ILL) & Digital Delivery offers access to materials needed for courses and research, including materials not currently available within the University of Minnesota Libraries, AND digital copies of articles and book chapters from our print and microform collections. Free for currently-affiliated University students, faculty, and staff.

Citation managers

What is a citation manager.

A citation manager is a software tool used to create personalized databases of citation information and notes. They allow you to:

• import and organize citation information from article indexes and other sources,
• export your citations into Word documents or other types of publications,
• format citations for your papers and bibliographies using APA and many other styles, and
• include your own notes.

Choosing a citation manager

• Guide to Citation Managers at UMN
• Wikipedia's comparison of reference management software

Browse scholarly journals available from the UMN Libraries on your tablet device, iPhone, or via the web using BrowZine .

• Read journal articles on your preferred device. 
• Create personal libraries of your favorite journals. 
• Set up alerts for new issues of journals.

For a quick overview, see this one-minute video about BrowZine. For more information, see  the full BrowZine guide.

• school Campus Bookshelves
• menu_book Bookshelves
• perm_media Learning Objects
• login Login
• how_to_reg Request Instructor Account
• hub Instructor Commons
• Download Page (PDF)
• Download Full Book (PDF)
• Periodic Table
• Physics Constants
• Scientific Calculator
• Reference & Cite
• Tools expand_more
• Readability

selected template will load here

This action is not available.

6: The Working Thesis Exercise

• Last updated
• Save as PDF
• Page ID 6502

• Steven D. Krause
• Eastern Michigan University

This chapter is about finding something to write about in the first place. As I suggested earlier in the introduction and in Chapter 1, “Thinking Critically About Research,” the process of finding something to write about is complicated. In many ways, you need to think critically about the idea of research, you need to go to the library or the internet and conduct research, and you need to formulate a question or thesis to research all at the same time.

Sometimes, the subject of your research is called a “research question” or “problem statement.” I’ve decided to call this process “the working thesis” exercise to emphasize the idea that embarking on a research writing project involves making “a point” that is also a continually revised “work” in progress. A working thesis is tentative in that it will inevitably change as you go through the process of writing and researching. But if you’re more comfortable thinking of the starting point of your research project as being about asking the right questions or finding the right problem, that’s okay too.

• 6.1: Working With Assigned Topics
• 6.2: Coming Up with Your Own Idea
• 6.3: Brainstorming for Ideas
• 6.4: Moving From Ideas to Topics With the Help of the Library and the World Wide Web
• 6.5: Writing a Working Thesis
• 6.6: Assignment- Writing a Working Thesis Essay
• 6.7: A Student Example- “Preventing Drunk Driving by Enforcement” by Daniel Marvins

• [email protected]

Home » Blog » Dissertation » Topics » Science » 80 Exercise Science Research Topics

80 Exercise Science Research Topics

FacebookXEmailWhatsAppRedditPinterestLinkedInFor students embarking on the journey of selecting research topics in Exercise Science for their undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral theses and dissertations, academia offers a vast expanse of possibilities. Exercise Science, a multidisciplinary field encompassing various aspects of physical activity, physiology, biomechanics, and psychology, is ripe with opportunities for groundbreaking research. Whether you’re passionate about […]

For students embarking on the journey of selecting research topics in Exercise Science for their undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral theses and dissertations, academia offers a vast expanse of possibilities. Exercise Science, a multidisciplinary field encompassing various aspects of physical activity, physiology, biomechanics, and psychology, is ripe with opportunities for groundbreaking research. Whether you’re passionate about optimizing athletic performance, exploring the effects of exercise on chronic diseases, or delving into the intricacies of human movement, this field provides a fertile ground for in-depth investigations. In this article, we’ll guide you through a curated list of compelling Exercise Science research topics tailored to different academic levels, helping you embark on a scholarly journey that aligns with your interests and aspirations.

Exercise Science, also known as Kinesiology, Sports Science, and Human Performance Science, is the scientific study of human movement, encompassing physiology, biomechanics, and psychology to understand the impact of physical activity on health and performance.

A List Of Potential Research Topics In Exercise Science:

• Evaluating the long-term consequences of disrupted sleep patterns during the COVID-19 pandemic on exercise performance and health.
• Assessing the role of dietary antioxidants in reducing oxidative stress during endurance exercise.
• Evaluating the effectiveness of aquatic exercise for managing chronic lower back pain.
• Assessing the role of wearable fitness technology in improving exercise adherence among sedentary individuals.
• Investigating the impact of prolonged sedentary behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic on cardiovascular health and metabolic outcomes.
• Exploring the impact of social inequalities on exercise opportunities and health outcomes in the UK post-COVID.
• Investigating the environmental and social determinants of physical activity patterns.
• Evaluating the effectiveness of exercise programs in promoting physical activity among children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
• Analyzing the influence of periodized training programs on strength gains in powerlifters.
• Assessing the impact of exercise on cognitive function and academic performance in school-aged children.
• Evaluating the effects of virtual reality cycling on motivation and aerobic fitness.
• Investigating the influence of social support networks on exercise adherence in individuals with diabetes.
• Analyzing the relationship between exercise and mental health outcomes in pregnant women.
• Analyzing the influence of nutritional timing on muscle protein synthesis and recovery in bodybuilders.
• Assessing the impact of aquatic exercise on balance and fall risk in older adults.
• Assessing the effectiveness of government policies and initiatives in promoting physical activity in the UK during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Integration of biomechanics in exercise science and management strategies for optimal performance.
• Assessing the benefits of yoga as a complementary therapy for individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
• Investigating the effectiveness of online fitness apps and virtual classes in maintaining physical fitness post-COVID.
• Investigating the physiological adaptations to strength training in older adults with sarcopenia.
• Analyzing the physiological adaptations to resistance training in individuals with spinal cord injuries.
• Evaluating the role of exercise in reducing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in veterans.
• Investigating the role of dietary supplements in enhancing muscle recovery and growth.
• Analyzing regional variations in exercise behaviors and their relationship with COVID-19 prevalence in the UK.
• Exploring the relationship between COVID-19-related stress and exercise motivation and behavior.
• Investigating the physiological responses to heat exposure during prolonged endurance events.
• Assessing the effectiveness of exercise-based interventions for managing chronic pain in fibromyalgia patients.
• Examining the role of nutritional strategies in optimizing immune function and exercise recovery post-COVID.
• Analyzing the impact of exercise on insulin sensitivity and metabolic health in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients.
• Investigating the role of community-based exercise programs in improving mental health and well-being in the UK.
• Analyzing the influence of COVID-19 restrictions on physical activity levels among different age groups and populations.
• Examining the relationship between sleep quality and recovery following strenuous resistance training.
• Evaluating the effects of pre-exercise nutrition on endurance performance in cyclists.
• Assessing the effectiveness of resistance training programs for improving bone health in adolescents.
• Assessing the influence of weather and seasonal variations on physical activity patterns in the UK.
• Examining the historical evolution of exercise science and its contributions to public health.
• Evaluating the role of telemedicine in delivering exercise interventions and rehabilitation post-COVID.
• Assessing the impact of COVID-19 lockdowns on muscle mass and strength in athletes and non-athletes.
• Examining the relationship between exercise intensity and cognitive function in older adults.
• Investigating the role of nutrition in optimizing recovery and performance in endurance athletes.
• Analyzing the effectiveness of various exercise modalities in managing chronic health conditions.
• Investigating the accessibility and utilization of exercise facilities in the UK in the context of COVID-19 restrictions.
• Investigating the influence of music tempo on exercise motivation and performance in recreational runners.
• Examining the effectiveness of wearable fitness trackers in promoting physical activity in older adults.
• Investigating the effects of sleep deprivation on exercise performance and recovery in athletes.
• Examining the physiological responses to cold exposure during winter sports training.
• Investigating the role of public parks and green spaces in promoting physical activity and mental health in the UK.
• Examining the influence of exercise on cardiovascular health in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.
• Exploring the psychological factors influencing exercise motivation and adherence.
• Analyzing the effectiveness of online physical education programs in maintaining children’s activity levels in the UK during and after COVID-19.
• Analyzing the impact of exercise on insulin sensitivity and glucose regulation in individuals with prediabetes.
• Analyzing the physiological and psychological benefits of outdoor adventure-based fitness programs.
• Evaluating the effectiveness of mindfulness meditation as a strategy for reducing exercise-induced stress.
• Analyzing the influence of exercise on bone health in female collegiate athletes with amenorrhea.
• Examining the long-term effects of COVID-19 infection on exercise capacity and performance.
• Evaluating the role of exercise in preventing and managing mental health disorders.
• Examining the impact of high-altitude training on sprint performance in track and field athletes.
• Analyzing the physiological adaptations to altitude training in elite endurance athletes.
• Investigating the physiological responses to altitude training in elite swimmers.
• Analyzing the influence of sleep duration and quality on athletic performance in elite athletes.
• Exploring the interplay between exercise science and veterinary care for animal wellness.
• Evaluating the effects of dietary nitrate supplementation on endurance exercise performance.
• Examining the perceptions and attitudes of healthcare professionals towards exercise prescription in the UK post-COVID.
• Examining the relationship between exercise and sleep quality in individuals with insomnia.
• Analyzing the effects of different warm-up protocols on sprint performance in collegiate track athletes.
• Examining the impact of resistance training on insulin sensitivity and metabolic health in obese individuals.
• Analyzing the effects of intermittent fasting on body composition and exercise performance.
• Assessing the psychological factors influencing adherence to home-based exercise routines post-COVID era.
• Investigating the effects of high-intensity interval training on cardiac function in patients with heart failure.
• Examining the impact of resistance training on bone density and fracture risk in postmenopausal women.
• Analyzing the effects of different carbohydrate supplementation strategies on endurance performance.
• Analyzing the relationship between physical activity and bone health in prepubescent children.
• Analyzing the ethical considerations in exercise science research and practice.
• Examining the relationship between exercise and cognitive function in individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
• Assessing the effectiveness of aquatic exercise for improving cardiovascular fitness in individuals with hypertension.
• Evaluating the impact of COVID-19-related disruptions on elite athletes’ training and performance in the UK.
• Investigating the effects of plyometric training on power development in basketball players.
• Investigating the impact of high-intensity interval training on cardiovascular health in middle-aged adults.
• A systematic review of exercise interventions for special populations, such as the elderly or individuals with disabilities.
• Examining the physiological responses to heat acclimatization in athletes preparing for hot-weather competitions.

In this article, we’ve provided you with a comprehensive list of Exercise Science research topics tailored to undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels of study. These topics span a broad spectrum, from investigating the effects of different training modalities on specific health conditions to exploring the intricacies of human biomechanics in elite athletes. With these research ideas, you’re well-equipped to embark on your academic journey and contribute to the ever-evolving field of Exercise Science. Whether pursuing a bachelor’s thesis, a master’s dissertation, or a doctoral research project, the world of Exercise Science awaits your innovative contributions to advance our understanding of human movement, performance, and well-being.

Order Exercise Science Dissertation Now!

External Links:

• Download the Exercise Science Dissertation Sample For Your Perusal

Research Topic Help Service

Get unique research topics exactly as per your requirements. We will send you a mini proposal on the chosen topic which includes;

• Research Statement
• Research Questions
• Key Literature Highlights
• Proposed Methodology
• View a Sample of Service

Ensure Your Good Grades With Our Writing Help

• Talk to the assigned writer before payment
• Get topic if you don't have one
• Multiple draft submissions to have supervisor's feedback
• Free revisions
• Complete privacy
• Plagiarism Free work
• Guaranteed 2:1 (With help of your supervisor's feedback)
• 2 Installments plan
• Special discounts

Other Posts

• 80 Actuarial Science Research Topics August 11, 2023 -->
• 80 Agricultural Science Research Topics August 12, 2023 -->
• 80 Animal Science Research Topics August 12, 2023 -->
• 80 Atmospheric Science Research Topics August 13, 2023 -->
• 80 Biological Science Research Topics September 14, 2023 -->
• 80 Biomedical Science Research Topics August 14, 2023 -->
• 80 Cognitive Science Research Topics September 14, 2023 -->
• 80 Communication Science Research Topics September 14, 2023 -->
• 80 Environmental Science Research Topics August 11, 2023 -->
• 80 Forensic Science Research Topics September 14, 2023 -->
• 80 Geological Science Research Topics September 14, 2023 -->
• 80 Health Science Research Topics September 14, 2023 -->
• 80 Information Science Research Topics September 14, 2023 -->
• 80 Library and Information Science Research Topics September 15, 2023 -->
• 80 Life Science Research Topics September 15, 2023 -->
• 80 Management Science Research Topics September 15, 2023 -->
• 80 Marine Science Research Topics September 15, 2023 -->
• 80 Material Science Research Topics September 15, 2023 -->
• 80 Natural Science Research Topics September 15, 2023 -->
• 80 Neuro Science Research Topics September 15, 2023 -->
• 80 Plant Science Research Topics September 15, 2023 -->
• 80 Social Science Research Topics September 15, 2023 -->
• 80 Space Science Research Topics September 16, 2023 -->
• 80 Sport Science Research Topics September 16, 2023 -->
• 80 Veterinary Science Research Topics September 16, 2023 -->

WhatsApp us

Santa Clarita Valley's #1 Local News Source

20 great research ideas for your dissertation on sports, sponsored post.

• February 28, 2020

A degree in Sports Science will place students in careers such as sports therapy, coaching, personal training, sports nutrition, and sports management, among others. You can also become an event organizer, a sports psychologist, or a sports researcher. As such, students looking for sport science dissertation ideas should pick only those ideas that can help progress their careers in the future. Below are simple sport dissertation ideas you might consider:

Dissertation Questions and Topics on Exercise and Muscle Strength

1. How does exercise enhance performance in football? You can study muscle strength as the main factor in enhancing the success of elite footballer in the UK

2. Exercise, muscle strength, and swimming: A case study of the effects of exercises on human physiology and skeletal muscle functions in swimming

3. Physical and psychological effects of long term bodybuilding: How does long term bodybuilding affect the mind and the body, and what is the role of nutrition in all these?

4. Effects of prolonged exercise and sports on aging: A study on muscle degeneration among women athletes before and in menopause and beyond

5. Nutrition in sports during the active years and beyond: A case study of active and retired athletes and how nutrition affects their health.

6. Muscle strength and gender: Comparing how muscle transformations in male and female athletes and the role of nutrition 

Sport Dissertation Examples in Nutrition  

7. Pre-game diet and performance: A comparative study on hoe different diet taken before a game affect performance in males and females

8. Protein requirements in sports: A study on protein supplementation for optimal performance in sports, strength training, and bone development

9. Vitamins and athlete performance: Does vitamin supplementation enhance performance in the field?

10.  Supplements and performance in the field: Does the use of supplements such as citrate, bicarbonate, glutamine, and others help in sports performance?

There are so many more dissertation topics in sports nutrition. You can search for these online, and you can come up with more, especially on challenges that athletes in your locality face. Either you do your research from scratch or ask for help with a dissertation from a writer with PhD on Writix , choosing the right topic is crucial. Dissertation order platforms can provide you with some ideas on topics as well. 

Interesting EPQ Topics in Sports Pharmacology  

11.  The effects of prescribed supplements in athletics: Does the use of supplements and other drugs affect performance for athletes with respiratory and cardiovascular diseases?

12.  Hypertension and sports: What the International Sports Association stands for in the management of hypertension for active patients.

13.  The use of Diuretics in sports: A case study on the effects of the use of diuretics on physical activities among elite athletes

14.  Asthmatic tri-athletes: How do strenuous training and medication affect asthmatic athletes?

15.  Adrenaline rush and race: A case study of adrenaline production during sports in black and white males and females in the UK

Sport Science Dissertation Ideas in Health and Well-Being  

16.  Optimal performance and metabolic training: Examining all case studies on the metabolism of nutrients during metabolic training among elite athletes

17.  Subject health and well-being among college footballers: A case study of the health and psychological well-being of college footballers in Wales. This can be one of these interesting EPQ topics.

18.  Athletes’ psychological stability and performance: How does mental well-being influence performance among elite athletes?

19.  Swimming and satisfaction in life: A study on life satisfaction and happiness among active swimming professionals

20.  Cultural and racial well-being in football: A case study of white and black footballers and their self-esteem, and how that affects performance in football clubs in England.

Sport Dissertation Ideas on Other Topics  

The list of dissertation questions and topics is almost endless. Other sport dissertation examples you can pursue include the hardships coaches face on behavioral intervention, effects of parenthood on exercise and performance, homosexuality and its effects on coaching, how gender affects coaching sports achievements, the use of integrated model of sport injury for psychological improvements, and fatness among high school gymnasts and how it affects their esteem.

Interesting EPQ topics on clinical exercise psychology include the effect of music on exercise intensity , effects of smoking on athletes, effects of PDE5 inhibitors on blood pressure, resistance training and cardiac patients, among others. 

Conclusion  

You can ask for help coming up with sport dissertation ideas from an online service and then carry out the research yourself. With thousands of sport dissertation examples, the most appropriate idea for your research should be one that matches your career aspirations. You can also research an issue that affects most athletes internationally or locally. In such a case, you do not need an idea from an online source as you can create sports science dissertation ideas on your own. When doing so, consider dissertation questions in medicine, supplementation, nutrition, psychology, family, and management, the industry as a whole, coaching, and much more. 

Related To This Story

Is temu dropshipping possible and profitable in 2024, 10 top qualities to consider in a california solar provider, “days with mosquitoes” are increasing due to global warming, bitcoin’s role in reshaping modern infrastructure development, simple ways to turbocharge employee productivity, must-have accessories for a safe and enjoyable boating experience, latest news.

Man gets suspended sentence for selling marijuana to minors 

When bears are spotted 

Hart school board to select superintendent search firm 

Triumph Foundation holds 11th annual Wheelchair Sports Festival

Officials respond to bear sighting in Castaic tree 

Sign up for the, morning rundown.

Filled with the top stories to start your day, and emergency news alerts. 

25060 Avenue Stanford, St. 141

Valencia, CA, 91355

Main Desk: 661-259-1234

Newsroom: 661-255-1234

Advertising: 661-287-5564

Have a news tip? Let us know!

News Sections

• Coronavirus
• Environment
• Politics & Government

More Sections

• Video + Podcasts
• Sunday Signal
• Subscribe to Print
• Classified Ads
• Event Calendar

Sport and Exercise Science BSc: IMDSES399 Dissertation for Sport and Exercise Science

• IMDSES108 Introduction to Sport and Exercise Physiology
• IMDSES110 Introduction to Sport and Exercise Biomechanics
• IMDSES111 Practical Skills for Exercise Testing and Prescription
• IMDSES112 Science in Sport
• IMDSES113 Introduction to Sport and Exercise Psychology
• IMDSES114 Introduction to Strength and Conditioning
• IMDSES215 Sport and Exercise Physiology
• IMDSES216 Strength and Conditioning
• IMDSES217 Sport and Exercise Psychology
• IMDSES218 Sport and Exercise Biomechanics
• IMDSES219 Health Promotion
• IMDSES220 Research Methods and Statistics
• IMDSCO302 Advanced Strength and Conditioning
• IMDSES314 Psychosocial Performance Analysis
• IMDSES315 Clinical and Performance Biomechanics
• IMDSES317 Nutrition for Health and Sport Performance
• IMDSES318 Clinical Exercise Physiology
• IMDSES399 Dissertation for Sport and Exercise Science
• Databases and Journals
• Books and e-books
• Using Images, Media and Specialist Websites
• Latest Library News

Welcome to your Dissertation for Sport and Exercise Science reading list.  Here you will find the resources to support you throughout your module.

Essential reading.

There is no essential reading for this module

Recommended Reading

• << Previous: IMDSES318 Clinical Exercise Physiology
• Next: Subject Guides >>
• Last Updated: Apr 11, 2024 3:25 PM
• URL: https://libguides.uos.ac.uk/rrlist/sport-exercise-science

➔ About the Library

➔ Meet the Team

➔ Customer Service Charter

➔ Library Policies & Regulations

➔ Privacy & Data Protection

Essential Links

➔ A-Z of eResources

➔ Frequently Asked Questions

➔Discover the Library

➔Referencing Help

➔ Print & Copy Services

➔ Service Updates

Library & Learning Services, University of Suffolk, Library Building, Long Street, Ipswich, IP4 1QJ

✉ Email Us: [email protected]

✆ Call Us: +44 (0)1473 3 38700

• How It Works
• PhD thesis writing
• Master thesis writing
• Bachelor thesis writing
• Dissertation writing service
• Dissertation abstract writing
• Thesis proposal writing
• Thesis editing service
• Thesis proofreading service
• Thesis formatting service
• Coursework writing service
• Research paper writing service
• Architecture thesis writing
• Computer science thesis writing
• Engineering thesis writing
• History thesis writing
• MBA thesis writing
• Nursing dissertation writing
• Psychology dissertation writing
• Sociology thesis writing
• Statistics dissertation writing
• Buy dissertation online
• Write my dissertation
• Cheap thesis
• Cheap dissertation
• Custom dissertation
• Dissertation help
• Pay for thesis
• Pay for dissertation
• Senior thesis
• Write my thesis

180 Exercise Physiology Research Topics For Students

We know, you are reading this page because you are looking for the best and most interesting exercise physiology research topics one could possibly find on the Internet. After all, the grade you get on your next research paper depends a whole lot on the quality of the topic you manage to find. If you didn’t know, professors pay attention to what you are talking about.

If you manage to impress them right from the start by choosing an exceptional topic, they will usually give you some bonus points. It can really make the difference between a B and an A or even and A+. This is why we are proud to say that, on this page, you will find 180 unique, 100% original topics related to exercise psychology and kinesiology.

Getting The Best Exercise Physiology Research Topics

Many students don’t really pay attention to the topic they choose for their research papers. Unfortunately, they think that their writing skills alone are enough to convince their professor to give them an A+. As you might have guessed it already, this is not true. You can write an amazing paper on a boring topic (a topic that has been used by 3 other students in your class already) and still not get the coveted A+. So, here is why you should give our topics a try:

All of these topic ideas have been created by our professional academic writers. These people have been writing research papers for years, so they know what professors are looking for. Our exercise physiology research paper topics are not only very interesting to write about, they are also relatively easy. You can find plenty of information online about most of them. These topic ideas are 100 percent free. We want to help students get the top grades they need, which means we would never charge you for some great ideas. We are striving to update the list as frequently as possible. Why? Because we want to be able to help as many students as possible with unique topics for their exercise physiology research papers.

We know, you want to take a look at our exercise physiology research topics. Well, without further ado, here they are – organized neatly into relevant categories:

Kinesiology Research Topics

Are you looking for the absolute best kinesiology research topics on the Internet? Take a look at the list below and pick the topic you love right now:

• What is kinesiology and what does it do?
• The effects of physical activity on human cells
• The benefits of adapted physical activity for athletes
• Using physical activity to fight disease
• Arterial stiffness related to physical inactivity
• The effects of physical activity on neurons

Exercise Science Research Proposal Ideas

Do you need to write a research proposal about exercise science? Of course, we have a great list of exercise science research proposal ideas right here for you:

• Treatment of athletes’ knee joint injuries
• Health benefits of a whole-grain diet
• Healthy nutrition for athletes
• Physical exercises that alleviate autism symptoms
• Physical exercise for increasing bone density
• The effects of caffeine on physical exercise
• The dangers of sprains
• In-depth analysis of insulin levels in bodybuilders
• Outdoor physical activity for treating depression
• Preventing muscle fiber destruction during physical exercise
• The link between aggressiveness and physical exercise
• Exercise therapy as a treatment for osteoporosis
• Negative effects of intense bodybuilding training

Easy Exercise Science Research Topics

But what if you don’t want to spend too much time working on your exercise science paper? Then you simply pick one of the following easy exercise science research topics:

• The best exercises for abs
• The best exercises to get rid of belly fat
• The importance of warming up
• Exercises that work the biceps
• Excellent exercises for legs
• The latest breakthroughs in exercise science
• The workout routing for novice bodybuilders
• The best exercises for triceps
• Exercises that work the shoulders
• Targeting the chest during a workout
• Exercises for arms that you can do at home
• Exercises that target the glutes
• 3 methods to get a flat stomach in no time
• Latest research in exercise science

Exercise Physiology Topics Of Interest In 2023

If you want to talk about the latest advancements and research in exercise physiology, you need to take a look at our list of exercise physiology topics of interest in 2023:

• The role of exercise physiology in combating obesity
• The link between aerobic exercise and belly fat
• Compare aerobic and anaerobic physical exercises
• Using exercise physiology for heart rehabilitation
• Can exercise physiology find a cure for diabetes?
• Analyze the body’s ability to adapt to difficult physical activity

Kinesiology Topics Your Professor Will Love

In case you want a topic that you are guaranteed to be appreciated by your professor, you should definitely pick one of the kinesiology topics your professor will love:

• Is kinesiology a good career?
• What I find most interesting about kinesiology
• Using kinesiology to find underlying causes of health problems
• Applications of kinesiology in modern medicine
• Kinesiology applications used by top athletes today
• Discuss the 3 major principles of kinesiology

Fitness Research Paper Topics

Why wouldn’t you talk about fitness? There is nothing wrong about it because it is a part of physical exercise research. In fact, here are a few great fitness research paper topics:

• Effects of Zumba on the human body
• Discuss cross fit training
• The benefits of stretching before a workout
• Analyze the benefits of circuit training
• Is bike riding an effective exercise?
• Pilates: effects on the body
• Benefits of taking spinning classes
• Discuss the way HIIT workouts work
• Talk about plyometric exercises
• Best routines for strength training
• Running and its health benefits
• Is yoga a form of physical exercise?

University Level Topics

Be aware that university level topics are not as easy to write about. If you want to try writing such a paper, check out the university level topics below:

• Psychological principles in kinesiology
• Discuss applied kinesiology in 2023
• The biomechanics of the human wrist
• Kinesiology applications in developing prosthetics
• Developing a diet and workout plan for a bodybuilder from scratch

Controversial Exercise Physiology Topics

There is nothing that could prevent you from writing about a controversial idea. Your professor will love these controversial exercise physiology topics:

• Depression and suicide rates in young athletes in the United States
• Anxiety and stress caused by extreme physical exercise
• Sleep disorders caused by physical exercise
• Who can afford expert exercise physiology advice?
• The most controversial exercise physiology papers ever published

Topics That Received High Grades

In our experience, some topics received better grades than others. Here are the topics that received high grades. Give them a try:

• The best fitness trackers in 2023
• The beginner’s guide to meal planning
• The correct ratio of fat, carbs and protein
• Healthy diets in United States schools
• A detailed explanation of muscle contraction
• Making muscle fibers grown
• Effects of physical activity on the nervous system
• Conditions that can be cured with physical exercise
• Discuss the process of healing fractures
• Effects of physical fitness training dangerous on stroke patients
• Changes in physical performance of the elderly over the last 50 years in the UK
• Discuss the pros and cons of the Paleo diet
• Calculating the amount of protein for bodybuilder meals
• Movement patterns that lead to injuries
• The link between physical exercise and a correct posture

Physical Exercise And Health Topics

Want to talk about how physical exercise affects the human health? No problem! Take a look at some of the best physical exercise and health topics for 2023 and possibly even 2024:

• The link between physical activity and academic performance
• Physical exercise can boost the immune system
• Study the physical activity of college students
• The role of physical exercise in a healthy diet
• Effects of HIIT exercises on health
• Cardiovascular health and physical exercise
• Can physical activity prevent diabetes?

Exercise Science Topics For High School

Are you a high school student? Do you need to write an exercise science academic paper? Then you should definitely take a look at these exercise science topics for high school:

• Positive effects of sports video games
• Is running good or bad for our health?
• Ways to deal with stress as an athlete
• Things that can affect sports performance
• Effects of barefoot running
• Negative effects of prolonged high-intensity interval training exercises
• Compare and contrast 3 different popular diets
• Preventing sports-related injuries in high schools
• Why are some people more flexible?
• Discuss the term “neuroplasticity”
• Talk about the psychological effects of physical exercise
• How do bones develop?
• The role of the skeleton in maintaining balance
• Can physical exercise make us better people?

Difficult Kinesiology Topics For High School

But what if you want to write about a more difficult topic? We’ve got you covered. Check out our list of difficult kinesiology topics for high school:

• Discuss the 3 main principles of kinesiology
• The neuroplasticity principle in kinesiology
• The role of kinesiology in biomechanics
• The adaptation through exercise principle
• Training elite athletes using the principles of kinesiology
• And in-depth look at the motor redundancy principle
• Kinesiology research for developing orthopedics
• Applications of kinesiology in sport psychology
• Latest research breakthroughs in kinesiology
• Is kinesiology a regulated health profession?
• Using kinesiology to rehabilitate workplace injuries
• Kinesiology in long-term care applications
• Benefits of kinesiology for athletes

Health And Fitness Research Topics

Interested about health and fitness? No list would be complete without some exceptional health and fitness research topics, we know. Pick any of these right now:

• The 10 best exercises to try at home
• Best cardio exercise for home
• Improve your fitness and your health
• Documenting one-s fitness journey
• Pros and cons of sports supplements
• The effects of vitamins on your workout
• A healthy fitness goal
• Benefits of fitness trackers
• Discuss the 3 main health benefits of fitness
• The best health-focused training plan
• Workouts that help people with depression
• Negative effects of HIIT on health
• 3 reasons to avoid physical exercise
• Doing workouts and preventing injury
• The importance of the shoes you wear during workouts

Physical Activity Research Topics

If you want to write about physical activity, then you should definitely choose one of our relatively simple physical activity research topics:

• Effects of brisk walking on the human body
• The main benefits of jogging
• The biomechanics behind weight lifting exercises
• Effects of alcohol on physical activity
• Physical activity can prevent colds and the flu
• Discuss the link between physical inactivity and noncommunicable diseases
• Difference between walking uphill and downhill

Interesting Topics In Exercise Physiology

Our experienced writers and editors managed to compile a list of the most interesting topics in exercise physiology just for you:

• The tech behind body composition testing
• Talk about elevation training
• Interesting hearth rate variability research
• What is the maximal aerobic speed?
• Talk about the concept of neuroplasticity
• Effects physical exercise on cardiovascular health
• Effects of nutrition on your workouts

Physical Exercise And Mental Health Topics

Yes, physical exercise really does affect mental health. Here are some very nice physical exercise and mental health ideas that you can write about right now:

• How does physical exercise affect your mental health?
• Exercises that reduce depression
• Why is daily exercise so important?
• Physical signs that you are dealing with stress
• Exercises that reduce anxiety
• Exercises that improve your mood
• Physical exercises for autistic children

Physiology Research Topics For College Students

College students who want to write a research paper about physiology should choose one of these unique physiology research topics for college students:

• Talk about motor teaching in kinesiology
• Pick a muscle and analyze its anatomy
• Analyze the biomechanics of the hip
• Discuss motor learning in kinesiology
• An in-depth look a muscle synergies
• Analyze the biomechanics of the intervertebral joints
• Gait pattern changes during the human life

Sport Science Research Topics

Interested in some nice sport science research topics that should make writing your academic paper easier? Here is a list of the best ones, just for you:

• Best ways to monitor the onset of fatigue
• Discuss the role of wearables in sport science
• What does sport science do?
• An in-depth look at hydration testing
• Monitoring the growth of muscles after exercise
• Discuss the process of bio-banding
• Differences between technical, chronological and biological age

Interesting Topics About Kinesiology

Finally, we have a list of the most interesting topics about kinesiology we could think of. Again, all these ideas are original, so don’t hesitate to snatch one right now:

• Athletes that became famous with help from kinesiology
• Muscle activation during simple movements
• Talk about exercises that increase endurance
• Maintaining correct posture during workouts
• The biomechanics of running
• Discuss about the composition of human bones
• An in-depth look at muscular contractions
• Best exercises for strength
• Best 3 ways to make your muscles grow
• The role of the skeleton
• Talk about the different types of muscles
• Discuss the join structure of humans
• Exercises that increase flexibility
• The biomechanics of lifting exercises

Get Top-Notch Research Paper Writing Service

If you want to get a top grade on your next exercise physiology research paper, you should seriously consider getting our help. We are the best and most affordable top-notch research paper writing service on the Internet. The truth is that we have been writing academic essays for students of all ages for over 10 years.

Getting writing help is now easier than ever. High school, college and university students can simply get in touch with us and tell us what they need. We will immediately assign one of our professional, ENL writers to their academic paper. All our expert writers have PhD degrees in various fields, including exercise physiology/kinesiology. WE are your best option for getting a top quality custom essay fast and cheap online. Get in touch with our 24/7 customer support and let’s get started on your next awesome research paper!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Comment * Error message

Name * Error message

Email * Error message

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

As Putin continues killing civilians, bombing kindergartens, and threatening WWIII, Ukraine fights for the world's peaceful future.

Ukraine Live Updates

• Chapter 1: Home
• Narrowing Your Topic
• Problem Statement
• Purpose Statement

Alignment of Problem, Purpose, and Questions

Alignment of the quantitative research components, the quantitative general and specific problem, alignment of the qualitative research components, the qualitative phenomenon and specific problem.

• Conceptual Framework
• Theoretical Framework
• Quantitative Research Questions This link opens in a new window
• Qualitative Research Questions This link opens in a new window
• Qualitative & Quantitative Research Support with the ASC This link opens in a new window
• Library Research Consultations This link opens in a new window

In a dissertation, alignment of problem, purpose, and questions is key.  To help check alignment, some students find the following activity to be helpful.

• Activity - Aligning Problem, Purpose, and Questions Download this activity to check the alignment of your problem, purpose, and questions.

Instructions for completing the activity:

• Copy each segment of your specific problem statement into a cell in the first column.
• Then copy the corresponding segment of your purpose statement into the second column.
• Finally, copy the related questions into the third column.
• Read across to note any discrepancies.

Activity example:

For information: Please visit the NU ASC website and view the resources on constructing a problem statement. 

The problem of your study can be determined by gaps in the literature; HOWEVER, a gap in the literature is not the problem. A problem is a clear and distinct problem that can be empirically verified and has a consequence. NOTE: A problem statement does not suggest any action to be taken nor does it ask a question. 

Example: “My car has a flat tire, so I cannot go to work and my livelihood is affected.” (This is a statement of fact and can be verified.)

As soon as  an action is noted, it becomes a purpose statement – “I need to investigate why I have a flat tire.”

If you ask a question, it is no longer a problem statement either – “How does my flat tire affect my livelihood?”   

Your general and specific problem statements should have at least two to three current (within three years) citations.

An example problem statement format is provided below. Please use the information and templates below to construct each component based on the quantitative research design selected earlier.

Constructing the General problem and Specific Problem Statements using the Funnel Approach

The premise is that the “funnel” approach to constructing the problem statement funnels from a general problem to a specific one. 

The general problem statement. Using the funnel approach to write a problem statement, the first component developed is the general problem. The general problem represents a situation that exists that can be directly attributed to a specific problem that is the focus of the dissertation. 

Exercise #1.

Based on the type of problem addressed by the dissertation, write the general problem statement below.

"The general problem is (describe the situation linked to the negative outcome) (two-three citations)."

The Specific Problem Statement

Once again, using the funnel approach to write a problem statement (see Problem Statement webinar on the NU ASC website at http://www.viddler.com/v/a70ecc81), the second  component developed is the “specific problem.” The specific problem represents an undesirable or negative outcome that can be researched, and is directly attributable to the general problem.

Exercise #2

With the type of problem in mind, write the specific problem addressed by the proposed project below.

"The specific problem to be studied is when the (study population/site/program) experience/results in/causes (the general problem), (state the negative outcome) (two to three citations."

Following the Problem Statement is the Purpose Statement. The purpose should directly align with the problem.

The Purpose Statement.

The purpose statement describes the aim of the dissertation and includes the project design, method, and variables. 

Based on the design the purpose statement can be constructed slightly differently.

Correlational Design Purpose Statement

The purpose of this quantitative correlational Dissertation is to examine if there is a relationship between (variable 1) and (variable 2). 

Causal Comparative Design Purpose Statement

The purpose of this quantitative causal-comparative dissertation is to examine the difference in (dependent variable) between (group 1) and (group2). 

NOTE:  The groups represent the independent variable. For example, you could be investigating the difference between high school and college students, so the independent variable is education level.

Exercise #3

Based on the design write the purpose statement for the proposed dissertation below.

"The purpose of this quantitative (design) dissertation is to examine (connection) of (variables)."

Dissertation Research Questions

The type and number of research questions are dependent upon the design and purpose of the dissertation.

Visit the following site to identify the appropriate structure for the proposed project: http://dissertation.laerd.com/how-to-structure-quantitative-research-questions.php

• Causal Comparative Research Questions

RQ1.  What is the difference in (dependent variable) between (group 1)? (group 2), (group…n)? OR RQ1. How are/is (group 1) different from (group 2) in terms of (dependent variable) for (participants) at (research location)?

• Correlational Research Questions

Q1. What is the relationship of (variable 1)to ( variable 2) for (participants) at (research location)?

Exercise #4

Write the appropriate number research question(s) based on the project design and purpose of the proposed Dissertation.

Research Question: RQ1. (see examples above to complete)

Hypotheses For each research question there should be a null and alternative hypothesis.

Causal Comparative Hypotheses H10. There is no difference in (dependent variable between (group 1) and (group 2). H1A. There is a statistically significant difference in (dependent variable between (group 1) and (group 2). Correlational Hypotheses H10. There is no relationship between (variable 1) and (variable 2). H1A. There is a relationship between (variable 1) and (variable 2).

Visit Please review the following site to properly construct hypotheses: https://statistics.laerd.com/statistical-guides/hypothesis-testing-3.php

Exercise #6.

Write the appropriate hypotheses for the proposed dissertation below.

H10. (see examples above to complete)     H1A. (see examples above to complete)

For information: Please visit the NU ASC website and view the webinar about constructing a problem statement. 

As soon as an action is noted, it becomes a purpose statement – “I need to investigate why I have a flat tire.”

If you ask a question, it is no longer a problem statement either – “How does my flat tire affect my livelihood?”  

In qualitative studies, the problem is the phenomenon under study.

The General Problem Statement

Using the funnel approach, i.e., moving from a general to a specific problem, to write a problem statement (see Problem Statement webinar, on the NU ASC website at http://www.viddler.com/v/a70ecc81, the first component developed is the “phenomenon,” also known as the general problem. The phenomenon represents a situation that exists that can be directly attributed to a specific problem that is the focus of the proposed Dissertation.

Exercise #1

Use the script below by replacing the italicized text with the appropriate information to write a one-sentence statement representing the phenomenon, and include at least two to three current (within three years) citations to support the statement.

"The general problem is that (describe the phenomenon) (two to three current citations)."

Once again, using the funnel approach to write a problem statement (see Problem Statement webinar on the NU ASC website at http://www.viddler.com/v/a70ecc81), the second component developed is the “specific problem.” The specific problem represents an undesirable or negative outcome that can be researched, and is directly attributable to the phenomenon of the proposed dissertation.

Use the script below by replacing the italicized text with the appropriate information to write a one-sentence statement representing the specific problem, and include at least two to three current (within three years) citations to support the statement.

"The specific problem is when the (dissertation participants) (experience the phenomenon), (negative/undesirable outcome) (two to three current citations)."

Often, it may be more effective to write one overarching problem statement that includes both the general and specific problems.

The Purpose Statement

The purpose statement describes the aim of the proposed dissertation and includes the research methodology and design, phenomenon, and project participants.

Use the script below by replacing the italicized text with the appropriate information to write a one-sentence statement representing the purpose statement.

"The purpose of this qualitative (design) study is to explore (the phenomenon), (as perceived by dissertation participants)."

Research Questions

Often, one question is designed to explore the barriers or challenges related to the phenomenon, and the second question asks about how to improve the phenomenon. However, there can be more than two research questions. The questions can be constructed in several different ways; a few examples are shown in RQ1. And RQ2. The questions should always include the phenomenon and dissertation participants and ask the “How,” “What,” or “Why,” as related to the phenomenon.

Use the script below by replacing the italicized text with the appropriate information to write two one-sentence research questions that together explore the phenomenon as it is perceived by the  (dissertation participants). 

"RQ1.  What are the challenges of the (phenomenon) from the perspectives of the dissertation participants)?" "RQ2.  How can the (phenomenon) be improved, as perceived by the (dissertation participants)?"

• << Previous: Purpose Statement
• Next: Conceptual Framework >>
• Last Updated: Apr 24, 2024 2:48 PM
• URL: https://resources.nu.edu/c.php?g=1006886

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Physical Fitness Linked to Better Mental Health in Young People

A new study bolsters existing research suggesting that exercise can protect against anxiety, depression and attention challenges.

By Matt Richtel

Physical fitness among children and adolescents may protect against developing depressive symptoms, anxiety and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, according to a study published on Monday in JAMA Pediatrics.

The study also found that better performance in cardiovascular activities, strength and muscular endurance were each associated with greater protection against such mental health conditions. The researchers deemed this linkage “dose-dependent”, suggesting that a child or adolescent who is more fit may be accordingly less likely to experience the onset of a mental health disorder.

These findings come amid a surge of mental health diagnoses among children and adolescents, in the United States and abroad, that have prompted efforts to understand and curb the problem.

The new study, conducted by researchers in Taiwan, compared data from two large data sets: the Taiwan National Student Fitness Tests, which measures student fitness performance in schools, and the National Insurance Research Databases, which records medical claims, diagnoses prescriptions and other medical information. The researchers did not have access to the students’ names but were able to use the anonymized data to compare the students’ physical fitness and mental health results.

The risk of mental health disorder was weighted against three metrics for physical fitness: cardio fitness, as measured by a student’s time in an 800-meter run; muscle endurance, indicated by the number of situps performed; and muscle power, measured by the standing broad jump.

Improved performance in each activity was linked with a lower risk of mental health disorder. For instance, a 30-second decrease in 800-meter time was associated, in girls, with a lower risk of anxiety, depression and A.D.H.D. In boys, it was associated with lower anxiety and risk of the disorder.

An increase of five situps per minute was associated with lower anxiety and risk of the disorder in boys, and with decreased risk of depression and anxiety in girls.

“These findings suggest the potential of cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness as protective factors in mitigating the onset of mental health disorders among children and adolescents,” the researchers wrote in the journal article.

Physical and mental health were already assumed to be linked , they added, but previous research had relied largely on questionnaires and self-reports, whereas the new study drew from independent assessments and objective standards.

The Big Picture

The surgeon general, Dr. Vivek H. Murthy, has called mental health “the defining public health crisis of our time,” and he has made adolescent mental health central to his mission. In 2021 he issued a rare public advisory on the topic. Statistics at the time revealed alarming trends: From 2001 to 2019, the suicide rate for Americans ages 10 to 19 rose 40 percent, and emergency visits related to self-harm rose 88 percent.

Some policymakers and researchers have blamed the sharp increase on the heavy use of social media, but research has been limited and the findings sometimes contradictory. Other experts theorize that heavy screen use has affected adolescent mental health by displacing sleep, exercise and in-person activity, all of which are considered vital to healthy development. The new study appeared to support the link between physical fitness and mental health.

“The finding underscores the need for further research into targeted physical fitness programs,” its authors concluded. Such programs, they added, “hold significant potential as primary preventative interventions against mental disorders in children and adolescents.”

Matt Richtel is a health and science reporter for The Times, based in Boulder, Colo. More about Matt Richtel

Understanding A.D.H.D.

The challenges faced by those with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder can be daunting. but people who are diagnosed with it can still thrive..

Millions of children in the United States have received a diagnosis of A.D.H.D . Here is how their families can support them .

The condition is also being recognized more in adults . These are some of the behaviors  that might be associated with adult A.D.H.D.

Since a nationwide Adderall shortage started, some people with A.D.H.D. have said their medication no longer helps with their symptoms. But there could be other factors at play .

Everyone has bouts of distraction and forgetfulness. Here is when psychiatrists diagnose it as something clinical .

The disorder can put a strain on relationships. But there are ways to cope .

Though meditation can be beneficial to those with A.D.H.D., sitting still and focusing on breathing can be hard for them. These tips can help .

Cookie Preference Center

Your preferences, strictly necessary cookies, functional cookies, targeting cookies.

As described in our Corporate Privacy Notice and Cookie Policy , we use cookies (including pixels or other similar technologies) on our websites, mobile applications and related products (the “services”). The types of cookies we use are described below.​

These are cookies necessary for the services to function and are always active. They are usually only set in response to actions made by the user which amount to a request for services, such as setting privacy preferences, logging in, or filling in forms. ​

These cookies enable the services to provide enhanced functionality and personalization. They may be set by us or by third party providers we use to provide the services. If you do not allow these cookies to run, then the services may not function properly.​

These cookies may be set through the services by our advertising partners to learn about your interests and present you with relevant advertisements on other sites. These advertising partners may be able to identify you based on your device or other online activity.​

Cookie List

• Faculty + Staff

Graduate Studies

• Life + Community
• People + Research
• Grad Student Profiles
• Faculty of Science
• Dean's Welcome
• Graduate Supervision
• Graduate Leadership
• Graduate Service
• Why Grad Studies at SFU?
• Programs Alphabetically
• Faculty of Applied Science
• Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
• Beedie School of Business
• Faculty of Communication, Art + Technology
• Faculty of Education
• Faculty of Environment
• Faculty of Health Sciences
• Individualized Interdisciplinary Studies
• Accelerated Master's
• Apply Online
• Admission Requirements
• Decisions + Conditions
• Tuition Types
• Budget Calculator
• Western Deans and CAGS Mobility Agreements
• Graduate Visiting Research Student
• Non-degree Student
• Donor Stories
• TRI-Agency & Government Awards
• External + Additional Awards
• Travel Awards
• Thesis Dissertation Awards + Convocation Medals
• Roles + Responsibilities
• Payments + Policies
• Award Application Tips
• Undergraduate Student Research Awards
• Getting Started
• Student Status
• Graduate Student Handbook
• Dates + Deadlines
• Supervision
• Grading + Academic Progress
• Apply for WE
• Returning to Studies
• Oral Examination
• Community Guide
• Indigenous Graduate Students
• Succeed in English
• Professional Development Wayfinder
• Your Career Compass
• Employment Type
• Job Posting Form
• Submit Your Profile
• Submission Form
• 3 Minute Thesis
• President's Dream Colloquium
• Submit Your Event/Activity
• goGRAD/SLATE for Reviewers
• Current Students
• Awards + Funding
• Research + Events
• Supervisor's Corner

"I am deeply passionate about sports biomechanics, particularly in developing effective lower extremity injury prevention strategies for females."

Meet More Students in Applied Sciences

SEE MORE PROFILES

Curate your digital footprint

Want to be featured on our website? Complete our online submission form.

Submit your profile

Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology (BPK) doctoral student in the Faculty of Science

Tell us a little about yourself, including what inspires you to learn and continue in your chosen field.

I am deeply passionate about sports biomechanics, particularly in developing effective lower extremity injury prevention strategies for females. My current research zeroes in on acute ankle sprains among female volleyball players, aiming to elucidate the underlying causes of these injuries. This work is dedicated to crafting targeted interventions that not only enhance the safety and performance of female athletes but also contribute broadly to the field. Through rigorous biomechanical analysis, I am committed to significantly advancing our understanding and prevention of sports-related injuries.

Why did you choose to come to SFU?

SFU boasts a robust research environment and offers numerous opportunities for biomechanics studies.

How would you describe your research or your program to a family member?

Exercise can greatly enhance our lives, providing numerous health benefits. However, it also carries some risks. By understanding and applying the principles of biomechanics, we can make exercising both safer and more effective. This scientific approach helps us minimize injuries and maximize the benefits of physical activity, ensuring that we can enjoy a healthier lifestyle with fewer complications.

What three (3) keywords would you use to describe your research?

Injury prevention, biomechanics, female exercise

How have your courses, RA-ships, TA-ships, or non-academic school experiences contributed to your academic and/or professional development?

I have greatly enjoyed my TA-ship in the BPK department, as it has given me the opportunity to collaborate with outstanding professors and attend their lectures. Although these lectures are designed for undergraduates, I have benefited immensely, especially from answering the insightful questions posed by students.

Contact Meihui: [email protected]

• Student Responsibilities

Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

Thesis and Dissertation: Getting Started

Welcome to the Purdue OWL

This page is brought to you by the OWL at Purdue University. When printing this page, you must include the entire legal notice.

Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.

The resources in this section are designed to provide guidance for the first steps of the thesis or dissertation writing process. They offer tools to support the planning and managing of your project, including writing out your weekly schedule, outlining your goals, and organzing the various working elements of your project.

Weekly Goals Sheet (a.k.a. Life Map) [Word Doc]

This editable handout provides a place for you to fill in available time blocks on a weekly chart that will help you visualize the amount of time you have available to write. By using this chart, you will be able to work your writing goals into your schedule and put these goals into perspective with your day-to-day plans and responsibilities each week. This handout also contains a formula to help you determine the minimum number of pages you would need to write per day in order to complete your writing on time.

Setting a Production Schedule (Word Doc)

This editable handout can help you make sense of the various steps involved in the production of your thesis or dissertation and determine how long each step might take. A large part of this process involves (1) seeking out the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding specific document formatting requirements, (2) understanding research protocol limitations, (3) making note of deadlines, and (4) understanding your personal writing habits.

Creating a Roadmap (PDF)

Part of organizing your writing involves having a clear sense of how the different working parts relate to one another. Creating a roadmap for your dissertation early on can help you determine what the final document will include and how all the pieces are connected. This resource offers guidance on several approaches to creating a roadmap, including creating lists, maps, nut-shells, visuals, and different methods for outlining. It is important to remember that you can create more than one roadmap (or more than one type of roadmap) depending on how the different approaches discussed here meet your needs.

Science & Quantitative Reasoning Education

Yale undergraduate research, five things to know about… the three-minute thesis competition.

The annual competition allows Ph.D. students an opportunity to hone their public speaking skills — and better understand their research.

Search form

Five things to know about… the three-minute thesis competition.

Left to right, Lihao Yan, Arya Ökten, Yanyu Zhao, Jenna Andrews, Ethan A.Lerner, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences Dean Lynn Cooley, Alicia E. Ellis, Laura Stevens, Meera Choi, Alev Baysoy, Theodoros Trochatos, and Leonardo de Siqueira Lima. (Photo by Stephanie Anestis)

Every year, Yale’s Three-Minute Thesis Competition provides Ph.D. students with an opportunity to step away from the fog of their dissertation research and tell the world exactly what it is they are trying to achieve.

In three minutes.

The competition, known as 3MT, requires students to present their theses in a succinct, clear, and compelling way before a panel of judges. Winners receive a cash prize and bragging rights. But everyone who competes likely comes away understanding their research better and feeling more confident about public speaking, said Suzanne Young, the assistant dean for graduate student professional development in the Yale Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS), which sponsors the competition.

“ This is really going back to the roots of public speaking, where it’s about you, your voice, your intelligence, and your quickness on your feet while presenting to people who might be reacting to you in the moment,” she said.

Yale News caught up with Young just before this year’s event on April 12. (See this year’s winners in accompanying box.) Here are five takeaways.

Yale’s 3MT competition is modeled after one founded by the University of Queensland (UQ) in Australia.

The original 3MT was held at UQ in 2008. The concept gradually spread throughout Australia and then abroad. Competitions are now held at more than 900 universities in more than 85 countries, according to UQ’s 3MT website.

For Yale’s competition, which debuted in 2017, registration opens in January. Most years, about 35 to 40 students sign up. A first-round competition is held in late February. The 10 winners chosen during that round go on to the April finals.

The competition is not just for students in the STEM fields.

Students compete in one of five categories: biology, engineering, humanities, physical science, and social science. Not surprisingly, perhaps, the entrants tend to be weighted toward the sciences.

“ In biology, contestants are talking about different ways to attack cancer, and in astronomy, different ways to understand dark matter,” Young said. “The stakes of those questions are pretty straightforward and obvious. I think that helps STEM candidates come to this competition more eagerly.”

But humanities students stand to gain a lot from the preparation required for the competition, and Young encourages them to give it a try. She knows from her own experience writing an English dissertation that the long process involved in shaping a thesis — including questioning, researching, and reading — can at times make the project feel “a bit amorphous.”

“ Having to say, ‘here’s why this matters, here are the key central ideas, here’s what I hope to change about the field, here are the stakes of what I’m doing’ — that clarity can be really welcome and helpful,” she said.

Presentations must include a single PowerPoint slide, but the use of any other technology or prop is prohibited.

In such a technology-dependent culture, this rule might seem outdated. But prohibiting technological enhancements and other distractions keeps the focus on the speaker, Young said. The single slide is intended to be an adjunct to what the speaker is saying and not a focus itself.

“ We’ve all been to talks where you have to decide whether you’re going to listen to the speaker or read the slides,” she said. “We want this to be a live moment of public speaking and all the challenges that come with that.”

Coaching is available to all competitors.

All participants are encouraged to prepare for their presentations by pursuing the Certificate for Public Communication , through the Poorvu Center for Teaching and Learning. As soon as they sign up for the 3MT, they receive an email link to the certificate page. They also have access to coaching and advice from Young, as well as staff in the Office of Career Strategy and the Graduate Writing Lab.

“ We really emphasize the power of preparation and feedback,” Young said.

The judges in the competition are Yale alumni.

The final round takes place before a panel of judges comprised of accomplished Yale GSAS alumni representing a mix of disciplines and Lynn Cooley, dean of the graduate school. After the presentations, the judges leave the auditorium to confer. The audience — both those in the auditorium and those watching via the live stream — is then invited to vote for two entrants to receive the “People’s Choice” award. And there is entertainment — this year, the graduate and professional school a cappella group, the Citations, performed.

Eventually, the judges troop back in and announce the first-, second- and third-place winners. Each poses with an oversized cardboard check (prizes range from $300 to $1,000 for first place).

“ We try to make it fun, and a bit of a spectacle,” Young said.

Arts & Humanities

Health & Medicine

Science & Technology

Alison Cole ’99 named executive director of Yale Alumni Association

Tech tools and human values: Conference explores AI’s impact in government

Yale center makes ‘significant strides’ on quantum computing in chemistry

Preparing people who are sound-sensitive for noisy cicadas

• Show More Articles