Transforming Women’s Sport: Research, Innovation, and Impact

Join the movement to revolutionize women's sport with groundbreaking research and innovative practices from Loughborough University.

The Women in Sport Research and Innovation Hub at Loughborough University is spearheading a transformative movement in the world of women’s sport. By uniting experts from across the university, Loughborough Sport, and a global network of partners, the Hub aims to create lasting change at every level of the women’s sport ecosystem.

With a focus on cutting-edge research and innovation, the Hub is dedicated to driving progress through five cross-cutting Labs: Health, Lifecourse, Technologies, Environments, and Workforce. Each Lab addresses critical aspects of women’s sport, from athlete health and wellbeing to the social landscape and workforce development.

The Five Cross-Cutting Labs

The Hub’s research is organized into five key Labs, each tackling specific challenges within women’s sport:

Health

This Lab focuses on transformational research that advances the health and wellbeing of athletes in both performance and participation sport.

By understanding the unique health needs of female athletes, the Hub aims to develop tailored solutions that enhance their performance and longevity in sport.

Lifecourse

The Lifecourse Lab drives intersectional knowledge around critical lifecourse transitions. This research supports elite athletes and exercising women as they navigate different stages of life, ensuring they receive the necessary support to thrive in sport and beyond.

Technologies

This Lab accelerates cutting-edge innovations in the inclusive design engineering of sports apparel, equipment, and technologies. By developing inclusive and innovative solutions, the Hub aims to enhance the sporting experiences of women and girls worldwide.

Environments

The Environments Lab advances research on the social landscape of women’s sport, including economies, representations, governance, and infrastructure. This research helps create more inclusive and supportive environments for women in sport.

Workforce

This Lab develops research on the role of the voluntary and professional workforce in enhancing the delivery of women and girl’s sporting experiences. By understanding the needs of the workforce, the Hub aims to improve the quality and impact of women’s sport.

Key Research and Collaboration

The Women in Sport Research and Innovation Hub brings together multidisciplinary expertise with a strong focus on innovation and real-world impact. By working closely with athletes, coaches, policymakers, and industry leaders, the Hub is shaping the future of women’s sport through cutting-edge research and collaboration.

One of the Hub’s key initiatives is the Women in Sport and Exercise Academic Network (WiSEAN) Annual Conference. The 2026 conference, titled ‘Strike with Purpose: Empowering Women’s Health & Performance through Insight and Innovation,’ will bring together students, researchers, and partners from around the world. This event provides a unique opportunity to showcase work, make new connections, and drive meaningful change in women’s sport.

The conference, scheduled for 14 July 2026 to 15 July 2026, is a testament to the Hub’s commitment to fostering collaboration and innovation in women’s sport. By bringing together diverse stakeholders, the Hub aims to create a more inclusive and supportive ecosystem for women in sport.