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Paddling at Holme Pierrepont: Health, Wellbeing, and Safeguarding on the Water

    2023 Research Placement Project

    About The Project

    Holme Pierrepont Canoe Club (HPPCC) is a well-established local sporting organization with strong ties to Nottinghamshire communities and British Canoeing. The club offers coaching and competitive programs across all levels of paddle sports and actively supports the slalom competitive pathway in local schools. HPPCC has identified several important areas for exploration and collaboration, including mental health, physical health, women paddlers’ issues, welfare and safeguarding concerns, and increasing diversity within the club.

    Project Aims

    Research Aims: The project aims to investigate the “health on the water” at HPPCC, focusing on three broad questions:

    1. What are the physical and psychological benefits of on-water activity for participants?
    2. How can the mental and physical health benefits of paddling be maintained and enhanced, and how can the specific health and wellbeing issues faced by paddlers be effectively managed?
    3. What welfare and safeguarding challenges do paddling organizations face, and how can academic knowledge contribute to addressing these problems?

    The Project Team

    • PhD Candidate: Sarah Vernau
    • Lead Supervisor(s): Ella McLoughlin & Christopher Matthews, NTU

    Ella McLoughlin is a Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Psychology, while Dr. Christopher Matthews specialises in sociology of sport and critical studies.

    • Co-Supervisor: Mathew Piasecki, UoN

    Mathew Piasecki’s research revolves around neuromuscular function and sex-specific neural input to muscle.

    • Community Supervisor: Holme Pierrepont Canoe Club (HPPCC) – Andy Steel, Dawn Scott, Trevor Tarlton-Weatherall

    HPPCC is a registered charity run by volunteers, providing accessible paddling opportunities for all, regardless of ability or social situation. HPPCC offers a wide range of programs, mentoring trainee coaches, supporting female trainee coaches, providing coaching for various disciplines, organizing tours, and promoting environmental projects. They are committed to inclusivity and offer a welcoming environment for all paddlers.