Knowing Sport: Science Cafés inspired by London 2012

Published: 8 June 2012

Learn about the science behind sport and exercise over a coffee or a pint.

This summer, as part of the London 2012 Inspire programme, a series of free interactive events for adults and children are being held across Glasgow to explore the science behind exercise and sport.

Knowing Sport has been granted the prestigious London 2012 Inspire mark, the badge of the London 2012 Inspire programme which recognises exceptional and innovative projects that are directly inspired by the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Scientists from the Universities of Glasgow and Stirling will host a series of informal interactive events in community settings across Glasgow. Over a coffee or a pint, members of the general public will be able to learn about the latest research on why exercise is for everyone and not just for Olympic athletes; how genes influence sporting performance and health; and the science and technology behind preparing Olympic athletes for competition. 

Drs Jason Gill, Niall MacFarlane and Colin Moran will host the Science Cafés in Drumchapel, the Gorbals, Easterhouse, Penilee, Milton, Toryglen, Scotsoun and the Tron Theatre in the city centre.  People with no science or sporting background are particularly welcome. 

In parallel, Viki Penpraze will be hosting interactive sport and exercise science workshops on the same topics for children and families at the Glasgow Science Centre on the 30th June and 1st July 2012 from 10am to 5pm.  

Seb Coe, Chair of the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralymic Games said: “The Inspire programme is ensuring the legacy of the 2012 Games starts now as projects like Knowing Sport are enabling people in Glasgow to make positive life changes”.

Dr Jason Gill, Reader in Exercise Science at the Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences said: “These events are free and fun, with something for everyone. We hope that people across Glasgow will learn something about the science behind sport and exercise and how it is relevant to them, whether they are an Olympic athlete, a couch potato or anything in between. Science Cafés and interactive workshops are a great way to get people interested and engaged in how science affects their everyday lives.”

For more information visit: www.gla.ac.uk/knowingsport

First published: 8 June 2012

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