The Physical Activity Motivation Lab

To reach our scientific goal of developing effective therapies to turn physical activity intentions into enjoyable, lasting habits, we employ a three-pronged research strategy:

Basic

We delineate the mechanisms through which biology impacts physical activity motivation.

Does a specific biological or environmental factor alter the likelihood of engaging in physical activity? If so, how and where within the body does this factor influence motor function or affect, ultimately shaping motivation and execution?

Translational

We translate promising modulators of physical activity motivation into interventions for human use.

Can a particular molecule increase the pleasure derived from physical activity? Does it affect other biological functions like hunger or sleep?

Exploratory

We discover new biological and environmental determinants of physical activity motivation.

Are there specific molecules in certain tissues that correlate with a higher likelihood of engaging in physical activity?