Moving Together

I am inspired by the power of community. As well in health, care, social wellfare and life, communities hold the key to enacting change. We are always stronger together. 

Human Movement Science is traditionally a very data-driven science. We enjoy studying the biomechanics of movement, the neural mechanisms of control, or the physiology of peak performance, all fields where qualitative research is leading. And yet, the big questions where Human Movement Science can make an impact are of a much softer nature: 'How can we boost physical activity participation?', 'How do we design prevention programs that people want to be involved in?', and 'How do we help each other move together?'

In health and care, these sorts of questions are already much more normal. In contrast to sports practice, where the trainer or coach 'always knows best' and often still lives in the illusion that they should teach one 'optimal technique' to their pupils,  in care we are aware that patients, nurses or practitioners are the experts on their own activities and that all situations are unique. From this awareness, a new set of research tools emerges, such as 'participatory action research' or 'patient journey mapping', which enable researchers to work with the practical field, in order to change the practical field. The movement sciences might want to take notes... 

I am a fan of communities. This is best illustrated by my interest in parkrun. Parkrun is a volunteer-based initiative where members of the community organize a free, weekly 5 km run in a local park. It is for people, by people, and helps people worldwide stay social and active. I am, therefore, very proud of being among the founding members of the local parkrun in my hometown of Hoogeveen, where I am now a regular volunteer and runner.  If everyone would partake in parkrun, I believe the world would become just a little bit of a better place.