From Training to Impact: Exercise Psychology, Focus, and Community Engagement
As a sport and exercise psychologist in training, I’m passionate about the transformative role physical activity can play in enhancing not just physical wellbeing, but mental and emotional health too. My work focuses on supporting individuals and communities to engage in movement in ways that are accessible, sustainable, and personally meaningful, regardless of age, background, or ability.
My Focus: Promoting Movement for All
Beyond simply motivating people, at the core of exercise psychology is an understanding of the psychological barriers and enablers to physical activity. My role involves exploring how we can encourage healthier relationships with movement, and how exercise can be used as a powerful tool to support mental health, especially among populations who may face additional challenges.
My work currently explores:
- The mental health benefits of physical activity, especially for individuals living with PTSD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, depression, anxiety, or the effects of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs).
- Inclusion in sport and exercise, with a focus on breaking down structural and psychological barriers that limit participation.
- The role of nature-based exercise, including activities in blue (water-based) and green (natural land) spaces, which offer unique psychological benefits.
- Long-term behaviour change to support people living with long-term health conditions in developing active lifestyles that are manageable and meaningful.
Why This Work Matters to Me
I’ve seen firsthand how sport and movement can shift lives through improved fitness, restored confidence, connection, and a sense of purpose. My motivation stems from a desire to make these benefits more accessible to those who might feel excluded from fitness spaces or traditional sports. Whether it’s a child with anxiety discovering the calm of swimming, or an adult reconnecting with community through a local walking group, I believe movement should be a right, not a privilege.
Working in the Community
As part of my training, I’m actively involved in community-based initiatives. I’ve partnered with my local council to help promote physical activity and wellbeing across a range of programmes, including:
- Inclusive rugby sessions for young people and adults with diverse needs and backgrounds.
- Swim, run, and bike initiatives designed to build confidence, community, and cardiovascular health.
- Support programmes tailored for those managing long-term health conditions, with an emphasis on creating non-judgmental, supportive environments where people can move at their own pace.
Far beyond simply increasing activity, what lies at the heart of these initiatives is building identity, resilience, and belonging through sport and exercise.
Whether you’re a practitioner, policymaker, or someone simply looking to reconnect with movement, I’m always open to collaboration and conversation. Together, we can create more inclusive, supportive, and active communities.
