Sport medicine lifestyle researchers #teamup against diabetes, heart disease and depression

More than half of South Africans do not play sports or exercise regularly. A new UP institute will address the problem by supporting healthy, active lifestyles through research.

Prof Martin Schwellnus, Dr Jill Borresen

November 28, 2016

Researchers

Professor Martin Schwellnus

Professor Martin Schwellnus is the Director of the newly established Institute for Sport, Exercise Medicine and Lifestyle Research at the University of Pretoria, Director of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Research Center in South Africa, and a longstanding member of the IOC Medical Commission. He is also a specialist sports and exercise medicine physician who regularly consults with athletes of all levels.

More from this Researcher

Dr Jill Borresen

Dr Jill Borresen is the Chief Operations Officer of the Sport, Exercise Medicine and Lifestyle Research Institute, Dr Borresen oversees the design and construction of the Institute Headquarters, implements the Institute’s research strategy, establishes research collaborations with various stakeholders, promotes the Institute via various PR and media channels, and guides the Institute towards a sustainable funding model. She holds a PhD in Exercise Science and a degree in Architecture, and has represented South Africa in Archery, including participating at the 1996 and 2000 Olympic Games.

Related Lecture

‘The drug everyone should take! Why, how, and what?’

Related Gallery

Institute for Sport, Exercise Medicine and Lifestyle Research

Other Related Research

Story

Fancy a cuppa? UP study finds tea to be as antioxidant-rich as fruit and veg

University of Pretoria (UP) researchers have found that the antioxidant content of certain types of tea can be likened to that found in recommended portions of fruit and vegetables.
Infographic

To tea or not to tea? Spilling the tea on antioxidants

Half a cup of black tea, oolong tea or green tea contained the same amount of antioxidants with radical scavenging capabilities (RSC) as that of a 200mg vitamin C tablet.
Story

UP scientists home in on gene that could play pivotal role in diet-induced obesity

Researchers at the University of Pretoria (UP) may have identified the gene that is responsible for diet-related obesity. By exploring the role of the novel gene Slc7a8, they have made a potential breakthrough in current knowledge about the cellular mechanisms that drive fat accumulation. This understanding is crucial in developing effective treatments.