Internship

Project Summary:

The rowing study aims to delve into the potential benefits of interval training compared to conventional rowing, particularly concerning its impact on overall muscle fatigue. By scrutinizing this aspect, the study seeks to uncover insights that could prove invaluable, especially for individuals with lower muscle fitness levels. Understanding whether interval training induces less muscle fatigue than traditional rowing holds significant promise for enhancing training methodologies and optimizing fitness routines.

This investigation holds promise for several reasons. First and foremost, it addresses a critical gap in current understanding regarding the comparative effects of different training modalities on muscle fatigue. By elucidating whether interval training offers a potential advantage in mitigating overall muscle fatigue, the study could pave the way for more tailored and effective exercise prescriptions, particularly for those with lower baseline muscle fitness.

Furthermore, the implications extend beyond athletic performance to encompass broader health considerations. Individuals with lower muscle fitness levels, whether due to age, injury, or other factors, often face unique challenges in maintaining an active lifestyle. If interval training indeed proves to be less fatiguing, it could serve as a valuable tool for promoting physical activity and improving overall health outcomes in populations with varying levels of muscle fitness.

Overall, the rowing study holds promise not only for advancing scientific knowledge in the realm of exercise physiology but also for offering practical applications that could positively impact the lives of individuals striving to enhance their fitness and well-being.

Throughout the year, I've been a supportive and adaptable team member at the lab. Initially, I focused on learning and assisting in performing strength tests while also familiarizing myself with operating the bio dex machine—an isokinetic dynamometer used to assess endurance, strength, and range of motion in major joints and muscles. As time went on, my role evolved as I gained more experience with the machinery and became more proficient in conducting experiments independently and I've become more knowledgable in the field of exercise science. I transitioned from primarily assisting to taking on more responsibility, eventually leading experiments, training newer team members on equipment usage, and collecting data when using the bio dex machine.

As a professional, I've grown significantly during my time at the lab. I've honed my skills in conducting strength tests and operating specialized equipment like the bio dex machine, all while ensuring accurate data collection. Additionally, I've developed strong organizational and communication skills through tasks such as recruiting subjects and coordinating experiments. Moving forward, I aim to continue expanding my knowledge and proficiency with the research we conduct, as well as enhancing my leadership abilities in overseeing experiments and guiding team members.

My contributions played a crucial role in advancing the larger goals of our internship team. By conducting strength tests, operating the bio dex machine, and ensuring accurate data collection, I provided essential data that contributed to our research on understanding factors influencing health issues like obesity, Type II diabetes, and heart problems. The bio dex machine specifically enables us to measure muscle strength and function, which are key factors in assessing overall health and risk for cardiometabolic diseases. Additionally, my efforts in recruiting subjects ensured that we had a diverse pool of participants, enriching the quality and relevance of our findings. Every task, no matter how small or routine, mattered in achieving our mission of improving cardiometabolic health outcomes.

Working with teammates from diverse backgrounds and perspectives has been incredibly enriching. The majority of my teammates are exercise science Ph.D. and master's candidates, so it's been an honor to work with them and gain valuable knowledge and experiences. Collaborating with individuals who bring different experiences and viewpoints to the table has broadened my understanding of our research objectives and enhanced our problem-solving capabilities as a team.