Sport science professor elected as Fellow of the International Motor Development Research Consortium

Professor Michael Duncan, Director of Coventry University’s Research Centre for Physical Activity, Sport and Exercise Sciences, has been elected as a Fellow of the International Motor Development Research Consortium (I-MDRC).

The fellowship recognises Michael’s extensive work in understanding the development of fundamental movement skills in children and adolescents, and how these skills are important for long-term health. It also follows his shortlisting for a University Alliance award earlier this year.

The I-MDRC is a global network of researchers focused on advancing motor development through collaboration. Its mission is to support research that helps people reach their full potential for a healthy and active life. As a Fellow, Michael joins a group of researchers who have made significant contributions to the field and helped further the network's goals.

Michael’s research focuses on fundamental movement skills in children and adolescents, specialising in how these skills impact physical literacy, injury prevention and long-term health. He has studied how children's movement abilities, such as running, throwing and hopping, are linked to their confidence and competence, and how these factors influence their likelihood of leading active and healthy lives.

His studies also emphasise the importance of motor skills development in childhood sports and the role of targeted interventions in improving both health and educational outcomes.

A key aspect of Michael’s work is his involvement in the ‘Living Lab’ initiative, which studies children at play to understand how outdoor environments and physical activities support motor skill development. His research directly informs the design of playgrounds and community spaces that promote active play and contribute to improving health outcomes, especially in combating rising obesity levels among children.

Michael’s work also extends to studying children with cerebral palsy, using participatory research to create opportunities for physical activity that support their development.

Visit Michael Duncan’s profile.

Find out more about I-MDRC.