Head : Associate Professor David Dunstan
There is substantial evidence that physical activity contributes to the primary and secondary prevention of several chronic diseases and is associated with a reduced risk of premature death. Through its substantial influence on energy expenditure, regular physical activity plays an important role in preventing obesity.
The Physical Activity laboratory seeks to undertake research that will facilitate the ongoing development and refinement of evidence-based physical activity programs for people in the wider community living with, or are at risk of chronic disease. This encompasses:
Epidemiological
This research examines the factors affecting the health and illness of populations, and serves as the foundation and logic for interventions made in the interest of public health and preventive medicine. It is considered a cornerstone methodology of public health research, and is highly regarded in evidence-based medicine for identifying risk factors for disease and determining optimal treatment approaches to clinical practice.
Previously we have examined the cross-sectional associations between both physical activity and television viewing and the prevalence of abnormal glucose metabolism and the metabolic syndrome in Australian adults. These studies have confirmed that physical activity has an inverse association with both outcomes, and identified a novel independent positive association with TV viewing, particularly in women.
Currently we are undertaking research projects such as:
- Television viewing, lack of physical activity and all cause mortality in Australian adults
- Objectively measured physical activity and sedentary time (accelerometer) and cardio-metabolic risk factors
- Health and wellbeing: productivity and cardio-metabolic health in Australian work places. The program is known as 'Stand up Australia'.
Biomedical/Clinical
This encompasses both short-term (acute) and long-term (intervention) studies investigating the impact of physical activity and sedentary behaviour on metabolic and physiological outcomes in adults with and without chronic disease. Research undertaken in the laboratory has provided considerable knowledge on the efficacy of resistance training (strength training) in type 2 diabetes. This work acknowledges that this mode of exercise may provide unique health and fitness benefits that may not be obtained from the typically recommended aerobic exercise programs. The findings from the two randomised controlled trials conducted in older adults with type 2 diabetes have been recognised by the American Diabetes Association in their 2006 revised physical activity guidelines which now support the incorporation of resistance training into the management plan of people with type 2 diabetes.
Behavioural research
This encompasses short-term and long-term intervention studies designed to provide new knowledge on behavioural strategies to influence people at risk for chronic disease to adopt healthy, self-care behaviours in the community setting through participation in physical activity and reducing sedentary behaviour. It also seeks to establish strategies where behavioural change can be maintained in the long-term.
Translational research
This involves the systematic evaluation of the evidence-based programs developed within the Physical Activity that have been translated to various community settings (eg Lift for Life). This includes evaluation research covering the processes and impact on health outcomes. This research underpins the continued development of community-based programs for people with or at risk of chronic disease.
A significant development for the laboratory will be the establishment of a state-of-the art Healthy Lifestyle Research Centre. The centre will be located within the new Alfred Centre facility, due for completion in 2010. This centre will house new equipment and laboratories to undertake clinical and behavioural intervention studies targeting physical activity and will serve as the hub for the translation of evidence-based programs to the wider community.