Physical activity throughout the reproductive lifecycle (Ref:SSEHS/EP26)

School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University

Dr E Petherick, Prof Rebecca Hardy

Sunday, May 31, 2026

Funded PhD Project (UK Students Only)

About the Project

Physical activity levels change across the life course, with females generally having lower average levels than males. Thus, reproductive characteristics which are specific to females, such as pregnancy and childbirth and the start of menstruation, may have an impact on participation in physical activity.

There is some existing evidence that having a child is associated with a decrease in physical activity among females, while physical activity levels are also associated with fertility and birth outcomes. Relationships between physical activity and reproductive events across life are thus complex and it remains unclear which associations are causal.

This project will use pre-existing longitudinal data on physical activity from across life, covering the time prior to, during, and after reproductive events.

The research will aim to describe physical activity levels across life comparing females with males, and then assess the impact of pregnancy and/or start of menstruation on physical activity levels and consider how physical activity impacts reproductive characteristics. The research will provide evidence to help females remain active across the life course.

The research will use data from routinely collected health data from Vitality and existing data from UK longitudinal population studies. It will apply advanced statistical methods for longitudinal analysis and aim to identify causal effects of reproductive events on change in physical activity.

Entry requirements for United Kingdom

This studentship will suit a student who is confident with using data, and performing statistical analysis, ideally with an understanding of reproductive biology and/or physical activity. Experience of performing longitudinal analysis using Stata or R is preferred for this project. A relevant master’s degree is desirable.

English language requirements

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.

Funding

The studentship is for 3 years and provides a tax-free stipend of £20780 per annum for the duration of the studentship plus tuition fees at the UK rate. Due to funding restrictions, this is only available to those eligible for UK fees.

How to apply

All applications should be made online. Under Campus, please select Loughborough and select Programme Sport Exercise and Health Sciences. Please quote the advertised reference number SSEHS/EP26 in your application.

To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit the minimum supporting documents. The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application.

Funding Notes

The studentship is for 3 years and provides a tax-free stipend of £20780 per annum for the duration of the studentship plus tuition fees at the UK rate. Due to funding restrictions, this is only available to those eligible for UK fees.