Doctor of Physical Therapy and undergraduate Health Promotion and Health Policy students describe how being involved in the Velocity Project community-academic partnership enriched their experience through the Wisconsin Idea. This poster was presented at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Teaching and Learning Symposium 2025.
File: Velocity-Project-Student-Experience-Poster.pdfThis is the first assessment of sport specialization in T&F athletes using the Wisconsin Sport Specialization Questionnaire (WISSQ). High school T&F athletes report relatively low levels of specialization, and average health-related quality of life. The WISSQ enables sport specialization assessments to evaluate the physical behaviors, sport motivations, and social consequences experienced by high school athletes. This abstract was presented at the 2026 American Physical Therapy Association Combined Sections Meeting in Anaheim, CA.
File: Wexler_Sport_Specialization_Velocity-Project-Abstract.pdfThis abstract used a new type of calculation to determine the burden T&F injuries impose during the season. By counting the number of days injuries limited or prohibited athlete participation we are better able to understand the toll injuries have on athletes, coaches, and teams. This abstract was presented at the 2026 American Physical Therapy Association Combined Sections Meeting in Anaheim, CA.
File: Cunningham_Injury_Burden_Velocity-Project-Abstract.pdfThe Velocity Project team work with a sports dietician to create to help high school athletes determine when and how to fuel themselves on race day. Here's to great performances.
File: Velocity-Project-Race-Day-Nutrition-Guide.pdfWe developed a framework depicting the multiple factors contributing to running-related injuries in high school athletes. This infographic guides our work as researchers studying high school track and field injuries.
File: Running-Injury-Risk-Reduction-Infographic.pdfAn infographic showing the key running mechanics components that may be used to reduce the risk for running-related injuries.
File: Improved-running-mechanics-decreases-the-risk-of-injuries.pdfA comprehensive strength training program for youth runners should include resistance exercises targeting the neuromuscular system, muscles, tendons, and bones. In addition to those four critical areas balance and core exercise may have additional benefits. Targeted exercise for the four critical exercise is important for reducing injury risk. Running alone is not sufficient.
File: Youth-Runner-Strength-Training.pdf