Reflections: Physiology and Nutrition Division Day 2025

The CASES Physiology and Nutrition Division Day held at Sheffield Hallam University in June was a resounding success, bringing together experts, students, and enthusiasts in the field of Sport and Exercise Science.

This was the first ‘in-person’ Physiology and Nutrition Division Day after being held online for several years and was a great opportunity for members to meet face-to-face and for conversations and discussions to flow and develop naturally. With a keen focus on the future of Physiology and Nutrition, the event explored modern technological advancements and fostered collaboration among attendees.

Embracing Technological Developments

The Division Chair Dr Alan Ruddock FCASES presented the Physiology and Nutrition Division Strategy highlighting the possibilities in this field over the next decade. This linked seamlessly into exploring integration of modern technology, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), into the realm of Physiology and Nutrition.

The utilisation of AI in sports science offers transformative possibilities, from enhancing performance analysis to personalising nutrition plans. The division is keen to encourage members to learn, utilise (responsibly) and grow within this new age of exponential AI growth.

Read the CASES position stand on AI and Assessment (Autumn 2023) which is aimed at helping both academics and students on the best practise.

Invited guest speaker: Kim Collinson, record-setting ultra-trail and fell runner

A highlight of the event was the presence of the invited guest speaker Kim Collinson, a recent record-setting ultra-trail, fell, and mountain runner whose accomplishments including achieving British Trail Running Champion and representing Great Britain and Northern Ireland at World Trail Championships, winning a team Bronze in 2015, have helped to inspire many athletes and young individuals.

In an open Question and Answer session lead by CASES Division Committee member, Dr Nicola Arjomandkhah, Kim shared insights into his training regime, nutritional strategies, challenges, and highlighted the mental fortitude required to succeed in such a demanding sport. 

His stories of perseverance and evolving understanding of his performance, the science, and the demands required captivated the audience, underscoring the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in achieving peak performance from an athlete perspective.

Undergraduate and Postgraduate Presentations

The event showcased a strong representation from undergraduate and postgraduate students who presented their research and projects. These presentations covered topics such as caffeine gum interventions on tennis performance and a novel insight into making-weight strategies and eating disorders in female powerlifters.

The quality and depth of the students' work was a testament to the vibrant academic environment fostered within the Physiology and Nutrition Division and especially at Sheffield Hallam University. The students not only presented to an incredibly high standard but answered questions from the audience professionally and clearly showcasing their depth of knowledge and understanding.

Networking and collaboration

One of the most valuable aspects of the Division Day was the ample opportunity for networking and collaboration. A big hit was the ‘Coffee morning Bake Off’ where attendees were encouraged to bring along a home-bakes where the recipes were inspired by ingredients with potential for an ergogenic effect for performance.

This not only helped to provide an eclectic array of snacks and cakes during the coffee break but also sparked discussion around the efficacy and ease of certain ergogenic ingredients for athletes. Most interestingly the bake that won the best taste was a beetroot and coffee inspired brownie expertly made by Dr Alan Ruddock FCASES and created by an AI platform.

The afternoon session also provided another chance for networking, where attendees engaged with one another during the ‘is this a good idea?’ session. This interactive segment allowed participants to write their burning questions, dilemmas, or potential ideas on a whiteboard, sparking discussions and providing suggestions throughout the room. The session facilitated a dynamic exchange of ideas, fostering connections that could lead to future collaborations and innovations in the field.

Student Review

Lily Matthias, CASES Undergraduate Representative for the Physiology and Nutrition Division reflects on her experience at the Division Day:  

“The division day was a great way to reconnect with members of our division, catch up on the latest projects and developments within Physiology and Nutrition.

“Of course, the division bake off was a highlight! 

“A really fun way to discuss some of the latest ergogenic aids over some delicious bakes. Our first talk from Dr Alan Ruddock FCASES really captivated us all as he discussed the rapidly developing technology and influence on AI that is already taking over Sport Science.

“Getting members perspectives on how AI/technology is already making a difference in their respective institutions/applied area of work was extremely valuable. How this will influence our upcoming students is still uncertain, but change is inevitable and happening quicker than we expect. Overall, it was great to connect and plan ahead for improving our members experience within the division.”

Find out more about our Physiology and Nutrition Division.