Exploring the experiences of fear of movement in pregnant population as a barrier to exercise uptake (Ref: SSEHS/EPVC)

Regular participation in exercise during pregnancy is associated with significant benefits for the mother and baby, with reduced risks of common pregnancy concerns such as hypertension, gestational diabetes, weight gain, preterm birth, maternal psychosocial wellbeing and potential benefits for cognitive and language development in children.

Evidence suggests that most pregnant women do not meet the current recommended guidelines of least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week despite acknowledging the benefits of exercise during the perinatal period.

Whilst it is recognised that many factors contribute towards reduced physical activity levels among pregnant women, disengagement with exercise during pregnancy has been attributed to a fear of harm to oneself and the baby through excessive motion/movement. 

This inter/transdisciplinary PhD project seeks to better explore the construct of fear of movement through a biopsychosocial approach and the role fear of movement plays in women’s experiences of, and engagement with, exercise during pregnancy. 

The studentship will appeal to students with a sports science, social science and social and health service background.

The project is part of the Health and Wellbeing of Women in Sport PhD cluster that brings together multidisciplinary project teams and cross cutting PhD Projects.

94% of Loughborough’s research impact is rated world-leading or internationally excellent. REF 2021

Supervisors

Primary supervisor: Dr Emma Pullen

Secondary supervisors: Dr Aimee Mears, Professor Emily Rousham, Dr Inês Varela-Silva

Entry requirements

Applicants must have, or expect to have, at least a 2:1 honours degree (or international equivalent) with a UK master’s degree (with average programme mark of no less than 65%) or international equivalent.

English language requirements

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.

How to apply

All applications should be made online. Under programme name, select School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences Please quote the advertised reference number SSEHS/EPVC in your application.

To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit the minimum supporting documents.

The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application.

Apply now