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Dr Steph Forrester
Senior Lecturer
Wolfson School of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering


Current Research

    Sports Surfaces

    My research in sports surfaces is aimed at developing an improved understanding of how surface properties affect athlete performance during various sporting movements. The focus on an integrated approach where both the surface properties and the athlete movement are controlled and measured under realistic in-game scenarios. I use both experimental and modelling approaches, with the overall goal being to support the development of sports surfaces that optimise athlete performance and / or minimise injury risk.

    Athletic Footwear

    My research in footwear is quite broad and includes: understanding the effects of footwear on running biomechanics; understanding the effects that footwear can have on static and dynamic foot properties; footwear design to optimise the role of the foot in human movement; and developing more biofidelic mechanical test methods for footwear.

    Sports Bras

    My research in sports bras is ultimately aimed at improving sports bra design and thereby provide woman with the opportunity to participate in sport and exercise without breast pain and possible long term breast or postural damage. The current focus is two-fold: on the development of robust and valid biomechanical test methods; and to quantify breast and bra discomfort during dynamic activities such as running. Discomfort is a complex multi-factorial subject measure that includes parameters such as fit (static and dynamic), material properties, appearance and biomechanical performance.

    Golf Biomechanics

    My research in golf aims to better understand the biomechanical factors that influence performance, i.e. maximising distance and / or improving the accuracy of the shot. I am also interested in integrating this biomechanics knowledge into technology that can support coaches in optimising elite golf performance.

    Biomechanics

    My research in biomechanics aims to improve our neuromuscular understanding of athlete performance. My work has included experimental and modelling investigations into the muscular and neural factors affecting maximum strength and power.

Details of these projects are given in my research pages. If you would like further information on any project please get in touch.