In the latest episode, Is sport science just for athletes?, presented by Professor Brian Cox and produced by BBC Studios for The Francis Crick Institute, a panel of leading experts explore how advances in sport science are affecting both elite performance and everyday health. Joining Professor Tolfrey on the panel are two-time Olympic rowing champion Helen Glover, Professor Andy Jones and Professor Greg Whyte. Together, they discuss topics including nutrition, recovery, supplements, muscle growth and the science behind athletic performance, examining what lessons can be applied beyond elite sport.
Drawing on her expertise in Paralympic and disability sport, Professor Tolfrey shares insights into the latest developments in Para sport research and how evidence from this field is helping to improve health, wellbeing and sporting opportunities for disabled people, including wheelchair users.
Professor Tolfrey, Director of the Centre for Para and Disability Sport Innovation, is an applied physiologist specialising in Paralympic and disability sport, with expertise in wheelchair propulsion and athlete health/performance. She has worked extensively with Paralympic sport organisations and international federations, contributing evidence to improve performance, reduce injury risk and inform policy and classification systems in elite disability sport.
Commenting on her appearance, Professor Tolfrey said:
“As a guest on A Question of Science, I got to see how world-class science and ideas are translated for wider communities, supported by an excellent BBC team who made the whole experience and preparation seamless. Sharing the stage with Andy Jones, Greg Whyte, Helen Glover and Brian Cox was a real privilege and made for a fascinating evening”.
A Question of Science is a chart-topping podcast featuring insightful live panel discussions in which experts from different fields answer questions and share scientific perspectives on topical questions. The podcast aims to provide accurate, open, and engaging discussions on the latest scientific discoveries and their implications for society.
The episode, Is sport science just for athletes?, is available to stream now.