UNSTOPPABLE MILLIE KNIGHT
Receiving her honorary degree from the University of Kent, Millie is a dedicated Paralympic athlete who trains with Kent Sport.
THE TANDEM MEN University of Kent alumni. Two men. One bike. Around the world in 290 days.
CYCLE TO THE TOP Our most recent addition, the Cycle Hub, gives Kent Sport members the freedom to ride.
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E N TS SPORTS DEVELOPMENT 4 Inter College Intramural One-off events Let’s Play STAFF ACTIVITIES Running Club Kent Unicorns Vice-Chancellor’s Cup
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FITNESS Functional training Strength Dangers of sitting Scholars of the year
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CYCLE HUB Tandem Men Guided bicycle rides Routes
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FRONT COVER Millie Knight
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INCLUSIVE FITNESS
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MEET THE NEW VC
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PHYSIOTHERAPY 26 Injury prevention Importance of warming up DEVELOPMENTS What’s to come?
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TEAM KENT
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STAFF SPOTLIGHT
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WOMEN IN SPORT
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Content and Design Mariah Young Photography Nick Sandland Smith Contributors Phil Darrell-Smith, Mel Clewlow, Vicky Annis, Sarah Black, Oli Prior, Sadie Appleby, Talya Garnett, Dave Burt, Karen Drake, Ben Roberts, Marion Hincker, Billy Radford, Laetitia Pelacchi, Kirsty David
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In 2016, The Tandem Men completed a trip around the world in 290 days on a bicycle made for two.
T H A N K YO U A special thank you to all those who contributed to this magazine throughout the 2016/17 academic year. From posing for photos to providing us with testimonials regarding your incredible year with Kent Sport to just generally being optimistic and willing to try anything. We look forward to seeing what this year will bring!
kent.ac.uk/sports
| Welcome
The University of Kent is a vibrant and diverse community united together through a shared passion for academia, arts and sport. Sport and physical activity is fundamentally important to the overall student experience and to the health and wellbeing of all on campus. We are proud of our ever-growing relationship with Kent Union, working together to create a streamlined and exciting student journey across sport at the University of Kent. Through sport and physical activity we can all learn new skills, enhance fitness and enjoy time with friends and colleagues regardless of age and ability, creating balance in our lives and enhancing our productivity in other areas. It is our goal to offer modern, cutting edge sport and fitness facilities, activities and services.
Kent Sport is constantly evolving with an ongoing programme of refurbishment and expansion ensuring Kent compares favourably to other universities and delivers opportunity for all – whatever the level, requirements or aspirations. With many sporting highlights this year on campus and beyond, including the Inter College Cup, Varsity, BUCS, intramural sport, the Winter Olympics, the Commonwealth Games, Wimbledon, Tour de France, and the Ryder Cup, we hope you will be inspired by what can be achieved through sport. Whatever you do, be sure to get involved with sport at Kent! If you are not sure where to start, chat to our friendly reception staff at the Sports Centre or Pavilion and they will be pleased to help. Enjoy your year! Kent Sport staff
Welcome Pictured: Participants in Whitstable from one of our guided cycle rides. on the
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Inter College
Inter College volleyball: competitive fun
Inter College sport has grown since it began at the University. It’s been a great way for competitive athletes to get together and see who will come out on top. Sports evolve based on players’ passions and Inter College volleyball has done just that, moving from strength to strength this past year. ‘My experience in Inter College volleyball was very interesting. In 2016, I joined the University of Kent volleyball society because I personally wanted to play more. When I first arrived there were many familiar faces from the society and some I didn’t know, but within the first five minutes of the game I felt like I had known my team players for ages,’ said Calvin, undergraduate student. Calvin continues: ‘Everyone was very engaging, the vibe in Inter College volleyball feels very casual yet very competitive. I was able to communicate better with everyone in my team as well as the oppositions. There are occasional tournaments which take part in the last session of each term, creating a very competitive
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environment. ‘Everyone tried their best to work together as a team and lead us into victory. I really enjoyed Inter College volleyball, I feel like it has provided me with more practice as well as getting the opportunities to communicate more with everyone. I will be fully recommending it to players who have just started or been playing before to come and join a fun and competitive volleyball session.’ Another undergraduate student Jack had this to say about his involvement, ‘Inter College volleyball is a great way to enjoy competitive sport and not be tied down by the commitment of team membership. I had never played volleyball before I picked it up last year and Inter College has been an excellent way to improve on my skills and really just to have a bit of fun!’
Want to get involved? If you’re interested in being part of either Inter College or intramural sport, please contact sportsdevelopment@kent.ac.uk.
| Intramural
On top with intramural Want to play sport but don’t fancy the competitive edge? Kent Sport provides the ease of being able to play sport through intramural. It’s not just the taking part that counts, intramural sport at Kent is open to students, staff and Kent Sport members with the emphasis on participation.
“3-on-3 basketball was really good this year. I have always liked basketball but didn’t want the commitment of training and playing for the Uni team. [Intramural] was great as it meant I could get some mates and play in a proper league every week. We had a team of five people but with individual commitments, we could still play as three. It was a great way to get fit and also relax after a week of Uni and everyone there was a good laugh too! Having a knockout competition in the last week was really good. We even managed to win a trophy in the end!” – Masters Politics student
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One-off events
We’re back at it again! Kent Sport is known for epic events – we don’t shy away from the good times! We’re excited that our UV nights are back! It’s the perfect way to unwind and forget about all things academic while having a good time and getting in some fitness fun. Just put on a light coloured shirt, slap on some neon paint and off you go!
“I had the best time at the UV roller disco. I convinced a couple of my friends to go and they were so glad we went! It was great to just hang out with our neon paint on roller-skating around just like I used to when I was younger.” – Jenny, University of Kent student
Be sure to visit our Facebook page LetsPlayKent to find out more about our one-off events throughout the year.
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kent.ac.uk/sports
| Let’s Play
‘My life at Kent would definitely have been different without Let’s Play. I never thought playing sports would be that amusing; but now I have actually fallen in love with it, especially badminton. Let’s Play is very enjoyable and carefree as it is all about having fun. I have to say Let’s Play makes my life healthier and happier!’
Nadia, student
Karen, student Let’s Play grand prize winner
The Let’s Play programme is one filled with excitement, learning and friendships regardless of ability. It’s the best way to get involved while working around your flexibility, requiring no commitment and a chance to be social, be active and enjoy! ‘Let’s Play has really helped make my final year what it was! It is a brilliant experience to go along every week and tackle problems and overcome them with such a great group of people!’ said Nadia, undergraduate student. ‘I truly am so grateful to the Let’s Play staff and the University for providing me with a great way to get healthy and all within my budget!’ – Debra, student and staff member. ‘Let’s Play has helped to make my university experience a greater one as a whole and has really helped me regain my passion for sports!’ said Glory, undergraduate student.
Why not try new sports like squash, indoor hockey and short tennis? Sessions run at both the Canterbury and Medway campuses and some external venues. So this academic year, join in and Let’s Play!
Debra, student and staff member
If, like Karen (above), you want to try new sports and meet new friends, head to our booking website letsplay.simplybook.me to find out all the sessions and events we have on this term! For more information about the Let’s Play programme please email letsplay@kent.ac.uk or visit kent.ac.uk/sports/letsplay. If you want to see what’s going on, then follow the Let’s Play team on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram LetsPlayKent.
Glory, student
Staff
The running club meets at the Sports Centre every Wednesday with session specifically aimed towards beginners as well as advanced runners.
Lunch break SOS
Alyson Hunt, Data Quality Administrator, explains her experience with our running club: “It’ll be fun they said. Get away from your desk, stretch your legs, feel the sunshine on your skin and get some exercise. And so, a little reluctantly, I found myself waiting nervously in the foyer of the Sports Centre for running club, escaping the inevitable drizzle and wondering what I’d let myself in for. Every week we learn something new, from sprint relays to downhill running techniques to the dreaded uphill slogs, but despite my tendency to complain – I still go back every week! There’s something vaguely satisfying at conquering the hill you didn’t think you could, running just that little bit faster or further and making it to the end of a hot and sweaty session looking just as puffed out as your fellow runners. It’s the highlight of my week and justifies all those office snacks which I can’t quite resist!”
Interested in running? Beginners meet 12pm Wednesdays, Sports Centre Intermediate/Advanced meet 1pm Wednesdays, Sports Centre Any queries, please email sportsdevelopment@kent.ac.uk
Unicorns are real The Kent Unicorns emerged from the 2014 ‘Return to Netball’ staff sessions run by Louisa Arnold, County Coaching Network Officer. After playing for fun during their lunch breaks, 13 dedicated and talented women became a netball team.
In 2016, Sadie Appleby, Kent Sport Memberships Manager, started helping with the sessions, leading her to volunteer to coach the women. The Unicorns enthusiasm and abilities grew and they entered Division 4 of the Thanet Netball League.
“We have an awesome and dedicated coach in Sadie Appleby who goes above and beyond to fit in extra training sessions, is constantly encouraging us and boosting our confidence. Being a Unicorn is one of the most fun, exciting and rewarding things that I have ever done.” – Ali Webster, Vice-Captain Kent Unicorns
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Since, the team have pushed themselves to the limit at the pre-season friendlies. Nothing can quite prepare you for the step up to competitive netball and the first few games were a true learning curve. As the season progressed they have found their feet, improved in confidence and the matches have started to go their way. A coach’s dream! Staff Netball is open to all and meets on Mondays at the Sports Centre at 1pm from October to July. If you are interested in coaching and officiating opportunities visit kent.ac.uk/ sports/coachingcourses.
| Strength and conditioning | Join in The Maths department stand proud with their own ‘Maths-cot’ at Kent Sport’s VC Cup, an interdepartmental staff competition for all abilities in a fun environment.
Staff sports tournament
School of Mathematics, Statistics and Actuarial Science (SMSAS) joined the Vice-Chancellor’s (VC) Cup this year and have excelled in everything they do. Francis Samra, EDI Project Officer for the school, was extremely excited to join VC’s Cup this year and is proud of what his team has accomplished in 2016/17.
“Since joining the Vice-Chancellor’s Cup this year, we have found it to be a great opportunity to meet and talk to people from other schools/departments while having a bit of fun and hopefully winning a few of the events! It has also enabled Professional Services
and Academic staff as well as Research students from SMSAS to mix and get to know one another better. I would wholeheartedly recommend it to any member of staff from the University.” – Francis Samra, EDI Project Officer
We can’t wait to see what may come in 2017/18! If you are interested in taking part in the Vice-Chancellor’s Cup, please email sportsdevelopment@kent.ac.uk.
Fitness, health and performance
Mini training plan Kettlebells swings 3 x 10 repetitions Box squats 3 x 10 repetitions Battle ropes 4 x 15 seconds, 30 seconds rest Medicine ball lunges twist 3 x 12 repetitions TRX rows 3 x 10 repetitions TIYR (tyre) flipping 3 x 8 repetitions Sandbags front squat 3 x 10 repetitions Swiss ball plank easy – on the knees hard – feet on a box
Functional tra
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kent.ac.uk/sports
What is functional training? The term functional training originates from rehabilitation and was aimed at retraining the injured area to perform the action and movement it is designed for. In the context of fitness, functional training is designed to train the muscles and the movement patterns used in specific sport. How will functional training help me? Functional training can help maximize performance and sport skill by improving power, speed and agility, cardiovascular conditioning, strength, balance, flexibility and neuromuscular efficiency all at the same time. •
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Strength and power Exercises that involve explosive movements, strength and speed can greatly contribute to the development of strength and power. (eg. squats, jumping) Speed and agility Some functional training exercises also involve quick changes in direction which can
improve agility. (eg. sprinting, toe taps on a ball) •
Range of motion and flexibility Certain exercises increase flexibility and range of motion which can lead to improved lifting technique, sport specific skills and reduced injuries. (eg. yoga, overhead squats)
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Balance and core stability When performed on an unstable surface or with unilateral movement, functional training can greatly improve balance and stability that are important in certain sports. Many functional training exercises require the activation of the core muscles which will contribute to improving overall performance. (eg. single leg squats on BOSU)
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Cardiovascular fitness High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) can greatly improve cardiovascular and aerobic endurance performance. (eg. kettlebell swing, tyre flipping, box squats).
| Fitness
Nutrition and you Don’t cut out fat! Fat is important and promotes your wellbeing and body composition. Dietary fat aids energy production, hormone synthesis as well as brain and nerve function. Although it’s not usually considered necessary to build muscle, certain types of fats like omega-3 (found in fish and nuts) may improve the muscle-building process. Fat is also an easy way to increase the total calories you consume. It is recommended to eat roughly 10-20 grams of fat per meal. If you’re following a higher carb diet, you can stick to the lower end recommended, but if you’re on a lower carb diet you should aim for closer to 20g. Make sure to vary your fat sources and to get them from whole foods like nuts, seeds, fatty fish, avocados, and coconut oil. For more information about your nutrition, stop by our fitness reception to setup your own personal nutrition consultation.
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Fitness, health and performance
Strength: simple as 1, 2, 3 Strength underpins almost all forms of performance as it affects the amount of force you can produce; think sprint speed, tackling power, jump height, even fine motor skills like gripping – each benefit from increased muscular strength. Prolonged strength training can help improve body composition and definition while increasing connective tissue strength to reduce the risk of injuries. Tip 1 The basics Focusing on the largest muscles equals big improvements. Full body exercises like squats, deadlifts or standing presses are preferred over isolation exercises. Tip 2 Technique Execution is key. Poorly executed exercises are ineffective and injuries are just waiting to happen. Also, using too much weight will compromise your technique. If unsure, then ask! Correcting technique is easy but an injury makes everything more difficult. Tip 3 K.I.S.S. (Keep It Super Simple) Basic programmes typically include three sessions per week with one day’s rest between each. Be sure to warm-up then perform three to five sets of five repetitions with your working weight and rest inbetween. Try to use a small increase in weight each session. Tip 4 Long-term Slow and steady wins the race. By increasing small amounts of weight in each session, the weight on the bar is not as likely to overwhelm you. If you are new to weight training or looking to implement some structure into your training, use these tips to help design a more effective training plan. If you have any other questions about your training, speak to one of our instructors!
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Kent Sport’s Joint Scholar of the Year 2017/18 Jasmine Pomeroy with one of our Strength and Conditioning coaches, Ben Roberts.
kent.ac.uk/sports
| Fitness
The DANGERS of
sitting Almost 95% of people will suffer from back pain in their lifetime. It costs the NHS one billion pounds every year on back related care and treatment. According to the Office for National Statistics, lower back pain is the second biggest reason people request sick days in the UK, only being topped by viral infections. You will no doubt become a hostage to the desk when you start university. In a day, the average student will spend more than six hours seated at a desk, possibly longer when exams and dissertations are due. Not to mention the other four to five hours sitting having meals, watching TV and commuting. If lucky, we may just accumulate two or three hours in the upright position. When standing, our intervertebral discs are enduring a 100% compression load, 25% when we are sleeping and a massive 140% compression while sitting. The invention of the chair has a lot to answer for and is responsible for many health concerns. It’s no surprise as to why lower back pain is a wide spread pandemic! Repetitive work and strain, poor posture, physical heavy lifting and twisting. Stress, obesity and lifestyle habits all contribute to back pain.
What can you do... Avoid becoming a statistic by taking precautionary measures such as exercise, movement and spine effective strengthening exercises. Here are a few tips to get you on your way to a better back: • • •
Put a timer on your phone and be conscious to get up and move when it sounds. Make a habit of walking to work or the shops, track your fitness with a mobile app. Even better, join Kent Sport and take advantage of the classes we offer every day,
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our fully-kitted functional gym, with round the clock instructors that you can reach out to and seek advice and assistance. Kent Sport Physiotherapy Clinic is located within the Sports Centre’s fitness suite with sports massage therapists available on request.
A lot of clients say, ‘I have a bad back!’ No, it’s just bad habits. Good news – Kent Sport can help you. To seek advice from our health, fitness and physiotherapy team drop by the Sports Centre reception or email physio@kent.ac.uk.
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Scholars of the year
Jasmine Pomeroy When did you first discover Karate? I first discovered Karate when my dad took my sisters and me down to the local club so that we could learn some self-defence. I really enjoyed it, continued training and competed in my first competition at aged seven. I definitely had a fighting spirit and have loved being on the mat ever since. With Karate being a martial art, the basic and traditional side is really important and lays the fundamentals down in order for anyone to excel in the sport. What were your sporting ambitions before arriving at University? My sporting ambitions have always been to be the best and to win at the highest level that I possibly could.
As I was coming into the University it was always an aim to attend and do well at the University national and international events. It has definitely always been an ambition to be able to compete at the Olympic Games. How has the University of Kent Sports Scholarship Scheme helped you over the past three years? The scheme has helped me immense amounts. It’s enabled me to continue competing at an international level while studying – that is no easy feat. Not only has the financial support allowed me to do this, but the support network of strength and conditioning coaches, physiotherapy, sports massage and all of the staff at Kent Sport is outstanding. The scheme has the whole package to facilitate athletes in all sports to compete and better themselves. What advice would you give to future students? I would always say to get as involved as much as you possibly can. Don’t be shy, throw yourself in the deep end a little and give it a go whatever level you are at.
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“The scheme has the whole package to facilitate athletes in all sports to compete and better themselves.” Jasmine Scholar of the year 2017
Want to be a scholar? If you are interested in applying to be a sports scholar for 2018/19, please visit kent.ac.uk/sports/scholarships
James Mapley
| Scholars of the year
When did you first discover your passion for cycling? I took up road cycling as part of my rehabilitation following a rugby injury. Four years later, I’ve never looked back. My first race was when I was 16 years old and I raced at Preston Park in Brighton and I loved it as it was such a buzz to be going so fast. What were your sporting ambitions before arriving at University? I’ve always wanted to race at the National Championships for cycling and one day at the Amateur World Time Trial Championships. With the help of the scheme, I was able to achieve both this year. How has the University of Kent Sport Scholarship Scheme helped you? As an individual who aspires to improve, the scheme has offered an opportunity to be able to train alongside some of the most exceptional sporting talents in the country. This unparalleled exposure and insight into their training regimes has pushed me to improve year upon year in order to be considered a sports scholar alongside them. How has the structured Scholarship Strength and Conditioning complimented your training and performance? The positioning on a time trial bike is probably one of the most awkward looking poses. For this reason, the strengthening exercises focus on building a stronger core and back along with increasing the power in my legs to help me go faster. The structure ensures that I increase the muscle without increasing my weight too much. What advice would you give to future students? If you are focussed and dedicated to improving yourself in your particular discipline, the Sports Scholarship Scheme will give you an opportunity to excel and improve. The support network at Kent are incredibly motivated and willing to help you achieve your goals. Balancing your degree and training each week is not easy, but the rewards from the results you will achieve are by far worth any sacrifice.
“As an individual who aspires to improve, the [scholarship] scheme has offered an opportunity to be able to train alongside some of the most exceptional sporting talents in the country.” James, Scholar of the year 2017 on the
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The Tandem Men
Taking it to the next level
In May 2017, Kent Sport launched their newest facility the Cycle Hub. It came at the end of the inaugural Kent Sport Cycling Festival, two weeks of cycling-related activities and events for cyclists of all ages and abilities. The official launch of the Cycle Hub featured a presentation from the Tandem Men who were still awaiting verification for setting a Guinness World record for riding around the world on a tandem. As the pair unveiled the plaque, they told their incredible story of pushing themselves to the limit and overcoming the feat of physically riding a two-person bicycle around the world. With only each other to lean on, they experienced more than what most people see in a lifetime.
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“There was a lot of planning that went into it – I think we did pretty well.” George Agate The Tandem Men
Here’s their story: Four continents, 28 countries, two men and one record. In the adventure of a lifetime, University of Kent alumni George Agate and John Whybrow attempted, completed and became the first people to circumnavigate the Earth by tandem bicycle. An idea that was conceived in 2014, formed out of the looming question of ‘what is possible in a lifetime?’ snowballed into one of the biggest challenges taken on by a team of British explorers this decade. John Whybrow and George Agate cycled their custom-made tandem bicycle, unassisted and carrying all their equipment for 18,000 miles from start to finish in the historic city of Canterbury. kent.ac.uk/sports
| The Tandem Men
“We achieved the goals that we wanted to and we went to nearly all the places we wanted to. We wanted to spend more time in other places, but at the end of the day, it was a race around the world.” John Whybrow The Tandem Men
Their expedition took them on a route that headed eastwards, across the flats of Europe, through the Orient, traversing the Australian outback, and cruising the Pan American Highway. It was hard, but so worth every gruelling mile. Although their Guinness World record status is still pending, it’s been quite the triumph to finally set foot back in Canterbury – 290 days later.
The goals... 1. To open the eyes of many to the humans of our world and its vibrant population. Tick.
2. To enthuse people to get on their bicycle and go outside for an adventure. And to have a really good time doing it. Tick. 3. To set the Guinness World Record for the first team to circumnavigate the World by Tandem. Semi-tick (at time of writing, the decision is still pending). To jump start your own challenges, why not hire a bike from the Cycle Hub? You might just surprise yourself with what you can do. Visit kent.ac.uk/sports/cyclehub for routes around campus.
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Kent Sport guided cycle rides With the development of the Cycle Hub, our sports development team provides opportunities for Kent Sport members to discover the beautiful Kent countryside and coast through groupled cycle rides. Group rides are led by two qualified leaders at a leisurely pace, so no one gets left behind. Once the group arrives at their destination, they have the chance to explore the area and tuck into some local delights, anything from fish and chips in Whitstable by the sea or a traditional pub lunch in the quaint village of Chartham. Top of the range bikes and helmets are provided for all riders, so all you need is an ability to cycle and an appetite to discover (or eat!) and off you go. We’re always exploring new routes and creating more rides to other locations, so keep up-to-date by Liking us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter UniKentSport. Why not send us a photo of your favourite route!
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| Cycle Hub
Cycle your way Rain or shine, the Cycle Hub is open to all our members year round. Discovering the Kentish countryside on bicycle is something everyone should experience at least once. Don’t have a bike? No worries, Kent Sport’s Cycle Hub has you covered. Not only do we offer inclusive hiring of bikes through your Kent Sport Gold and Silver membership, but we’ve mapped out five different routes taking you to various locations near campus that are just as stunning as the next. It’s as simple as hopping on and peddling through the woods. Have your own bike? We all know how important maintenance is and the importance of keeping your bicycle in tip-top condition. Swing by with your bike on Wednesdays for a free check-up with Dr Bike. We’ll even provide you with basic adjustments at no additional cost. If your bike is long overdue for a service or repairs, we can help you at an additional cost. Before your ride, review our dedicated Cycle Hub route page where you can choose from the adventurous Crab and Winkle path all the way to Whitstable or keep it close to home and see what Tyler Hill has to offer. kent.ac.uk/sports/cyclehub/routes Before you know it, you’ll be on your way in no time.
“Top tip: get out early in the morning to avoid the Canterbury traffic and use the quiet country lanes to weave your way through Kent.” James Mapley, Kent Sport’s Joint Scholar of the year 2017
What are you waiting for? Come on by the Cycle Hub and get those legs pedalling.
Millie Knight Director of Sport (interim) Mel Clewlow proudly stands with honorary degree recipient and Paralympic skier Millie Knight.
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kent.ac.uk/sports
The Unstoppable Millie Knight When I was just a year old I had an infection in my right eye and lost the majority of sight in that eye. Five years later the same thing happened in my left eye. So my sight is now pretty rubbish.
I also carried the flag at the opening ceremony. This was an amazing experience for me and one I will never forget…but that was just a rehearsal for the 2018 Winter Paralympics in South Korea.
I started skiing at this time and really got the bug and ended up being a little obsessive about it. I contacted the charity, Disability Snowsports UK (DSUK) and spoke to Sean Rose at the ski show in London 2010 and it snowballed from there on.
I have so much support from my mum, friends, DSUK, the British Para Snowsports team and all my coaches. I also started training with Kent Sport’s personal trainer Mike Burrell (pictured below) to help build my strength. Since beginning training, I’ve noticed an immense difference in my skiing and recovery time. I’m really appreciative of the support everyone’s been able to provide me.
“When I was much younger I thought I had perfect vision because I didn’t know any different. So I used to just follow people without even realising they were guiding me.”
I was invited on to the British Disabled Ski Team development squad in 2011 and started racing in November 2012 with my mum as my guide.
I now ski with a professional guide in front of me and we wear a Sena Bluetooth head set in our helmets and communicate between each other. – Millie Knight My guide will tell me what the conditions are like on the piste (a ski run of compacted snow) and if there are any lumps, bumps and obstacles on the snow. People always ask me if it is scary, but it isn’t. I don’t really see all the hazards that are on the slopes, I certainly don’t see the gate and that is why a good guide is so important. I currently ski with Brett Wild from the Royal Navy and he will be with me until the 2018 Winter Paralympic Games in PyeongChang – and hopefully beyond. In 2014, I was lucky enough to go to the Sochi Paralympics and competed for Great Britain in the Slalom and Giant Slalom, where I came fifth in both.
“Millie has overcome numerous challenges during the past 18 months and continues to improve as an athlete. After great success this year, we now have our sights set firmly on Gold at the 2018 Winter Paralympics.” – Mike Burrell, Health and Fitness Instructor on the
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Inclusive Fitness *Accessibility maps are available at reception or visit us online kent.ac.uk/sports/inclusivefitness
Chris Payne, Kent Sport Fitness Instructor, with Susanne Eder and her guide dog companion Vandar.
kent.ac.uk/sports
| Inclusive Fitness
Mission: Inclusive fitness Kent Sport is committed to providing inclusive fitness and sport across all of our facilities. It is our mission to get more people, more active, more often. Our team have been specially trained to assist you with any accessibility enquiries or information regarding all of our activities and services. Susanne Eder (pictured), a third year student from Germany, came to Kent Sport with little fitness experience. It took time for her to gain confidence in the fitness suite, but this grew very quickly. She recently gained a new companion, her guide dog Vandar who supports and helps continue her new found love of exercise. This among many other reasons is why we aim to deliver excellence and care in all that we do. After dedication and attention to detail, we are proud to now have the recognition from the English Federation for Disability Sport achieving the ‘Inclusive Fitness Initiative (IFI) Mark’ accreditation across all our facilities and services. Accessible facilities* at Kent Sport • Accessible parking bays are available close to the Sports Centre and Pavilion • Accessible changing, shower and toilet facilities at the Sports Centre and the Pavilion • Lifts available in the Sports Centre and Pavilion for access to first floor facilities
• •
Automated access doors to the Sports Centre, Pavilion and internally to the fitness suite Hearing Aid induction loops installed at all reception areas
Buddy system Kent Sport permits inclusive members to have a ‘buddy’ accompany them while using all facilities at no additional cost. Fitness The Fitness Suite is equipped with a range of accessible equipment that offers flexible training modes. The fitness team are specifically qualified to explore alternative training solutions for all members. Orientations Kent Sport orientations and fitness suite appointments can be tailored to suit individual needs, please let us know how we can help. Our fitness consultations are conducted in privacy and all information gathered will be treated in the strictest of confidence. Support dogs Kent Sport has a flexible policy regarding support dogs however some restrictions may apply. Please discuss your specific requirements with a member of our team.
“I had lower back problems, felt weak and had less energy. Since going to Kent Sport, I feel better, more awake and my back doesn’t hurt like before – the more exercise I do, the better it becomes.” – Susanne Eder, Drama and Theatre student on the
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Vice Chancellor “Sport is important across the board, for staff and students. It is good for health and well-being and can be important in terms of creating long term friendships and networks.� Karen Cox, Vice-Chancellor and President
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kent.ac.uk/sports
| Karen Cox
Meet the new Vice-Chancellor On the Move meets with the newest addition to the University of Kent, our new Vice-Chancellor Karen Cox. Kent Sport is delighted to welcome Professor Karen Cox as the University’s new Vice-Chancellor and President. Professor Cox joins Kent from the University of Nottingham, where she was Deputy Vice-Chancellor. We took the opportunity to discuss her views on sport and how she likes to partake in sport in her free time. What is your background? I graduated from Kings’ College London with a BSc (Hons) and Registered General Nurse qualification in 1991 and subsequently held a number of clinical posts specialising in Oncology and Community Health Care. During this time I decided I wanted to go back to university to do a PhD and was fortunate enough to secure funding from the Cancer Research Campaign (now Cancer Research UK) to undertake my PhD at the University of Nottingham. Following my PhD, I pursued an academic career at Nottingham combining research with teaching and clinical practice beginning as a Lecturer, then Senior Lecturer and being promoted to Professor in 2002. I served as Head of the School of Nursing from 2002 until 2007. I was then appointed to a Pro-Vice Chancellor position in 2008 and then Deputy
Vice-Chancellor in January 2013, both at the University of Nottingham. I joined the University of Kent in August 2017 as Vice-Chancellor and President. What are you looking forward to most about your new appointment at the University of Kent? I am most looking forward to getting to know a new organisation, its staff and its students and working together to continue to ensure Kent goes from strength to strength. The University of Nottingham recently invested ÂŁ40 million in the David Ross sports village. In your previous role as deputy VC, how important do you think sport is to students and what role do you think it plays in the overall student experience? I think sport is important across the board, for staff and students and that opportunities to take part in sport, whatever your preference and ability, is important. It is good for health and well-being and can be important in terms of creating long term friendships and networks. What sports do you participate in during your free time? I enjoy long distance cycling and do a little bit of running. I enjoy badminton and netball when I get the chance.
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Physiotherapy Clinic
Refer a friend
Focus: calf injury
CALF STRAIN A COMMON RUNNING INJURY
One of the common injuries Flexibility we see here at the Kent Sport • The best time to stretch is when Physiotherapy Clinic is associated you are still warm after your with the calf. There are a lot of exercise people who get the fitness bug, • Bent knee and straight knee particularly when they see the calf stretches Calf strains can happen to differently. Unknowingly, we could fitness facilities we have and often • Rolling self-massage of calf, nyone and can linger be usingvarying more depth of certain muscles do too muchfor toolong soon. and position of roller to address areas of eriods of time. The Kent Sport which can then fatiguelocal meaning people also use headphones tightness hysiotherapyMany Clinic treats a we are left with a calf that needs to escape but this can be • Massage can help with ot of people who have a calf detrimental, particularly on a some help! improving flexibility. is often the case that train. Often ittreadmill. is afterItthey have the foot to contact Proprioception/ ttempted to return theiris so loud, it makes The majority of calffunctional injuries are you wonder where all of the force stability and the ctivities too quickly and a fewsaid, ‘For treated is going! As Newton • non-operatively A good way to test your months have passed with minimal rehabilitation programme every action, there is an equal and functional stability is byand doing opposite hopimportant and hold and treatmenta single is very to rogress or there hasreaction.’ been an then measure the difference full recovery. ncrease in training volume. Calf Footwear is key when coming ensure abetween your left and right leg. trains vary from sudden general to thebeing gym. The wrong footwear,As a very You can alsorule, do thismuscle laterally. quickly Be aware keep a good upper strains can take to around six weeks with extremelyrunning sharptoopain to on a the treadmill, running to fatigue and changes body position during these radual onset tothat is less severe to heal. On a more in depth level, technique, are all common movements nd causes less functional time problems we highlight regularly. muscle • strains Standingcan on a vary BOSUin ball, throwing and catching. If you estrictions. depending on which structures Below are a few tips on how to really do struggle with your are involved. Some calf symptoms avoid injury and how to return balance, there is nothing wrong he calf is made up ofday-to-day a number purely from over to normal activities could bewith holding on or usingexertion a TRX afterwards. for balance to practise standing f different muscles, including the of a specific muscle leading into on one leg astrocnemius, soleus, plantaris, cramp or DOMS (delayed onset Strengthening eep toe flexors tibialis to target all theof muscle soreness), some may • and It is important Joint reaction/plyometric osterior. The gastrocnemius, from the different muscles within the be radiating This is something wespine, forget asand calf. calf Bent muscle, knee calf raises others wemay get older but can be great he most superficial be partial or acomplete and straight knee calf raises way to keep your body used to the tears.movements. s most commonly areinvolved useful but in do not think the cute strains. Whether we You could just rest the three sets of are 10 repetitions will • A simple ‘stepand back’allow action with your calfother strong. You will a quick return to standing feet unning, walking make or playing calf to heal, however, if you get need to progress by add more together to understand which structures ports, we all useresistance our calfwith muscles weights (ex. • Trampette work; double leg weighted rucksack or leg press bounce, jogging, single leg resistance machine) bounce • Skipping • Box jumps
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differently and address them specifically. This could poten mean a much shorter recove period. Historically, the gradi of injuries was simply minor, moderate and complete injur There are new and exciting ways to differentiate and it is important to be assessed by Love the good sports physiotherapist Physiotherapy another health care professio Clinic Kent who is at experienced in runnin injuries and biomechanics. H Sport? at the Kent Sport Physiother Get a discount on all things Clinic we have Vicky Annis w physio when you refer your has toworked friend the Kentwith SportBritish Athle Physiotherapy locatedfor over and BritishClinic Triathlon inside the fitness suite. years and Line Malan who is biomechanist a specialit The Clinic is offeringwith you the running to and sports opportunity refer a friendmassage and when your friend has their appointment, you will With regards a both receive £5 off self-treating your next calf sprain, there are many appointment.
recommendations, however,
Don’t play sports? cannot stress enough how m Physiotherapy is more than people anwork injury like th just helpingleave athletes through their aches and to linger and because “it isn’t pains. Sitting at a desk for bad”. It is important to consid hours on end or injuring the scar tissue formation, the yourself doing any kind of activity, physiotherapy can current strength capacity and help you. required capacity for the acti
you enjoy. There To keep up-to-date with is no point i Kent Sport’s Physiotherapy purely doing 10 calf raises. W Clinic, Like us on Facebook we run or land, we put more KentSportPhysiotherapyClinic
fourinformation times our body wei orthan for more through the visit footussoonwe must about the Clinic, kent.ac.uk/sports/physio. strength in a specific way.
kent.ac.uk/sports
| Physiotherapy Clinic
Vicky Annis, Kent Sport Physiotherapist, excels in helping others get back into the game while providing much needed support.
Physiotherapy Clinic
The importance of warming up
With close links to Kent Sport and Kent Sport’s Physiotherapy Clinic, the Canterbury Ladies Hockey Club let a few members pose for On The Move to help demonstrate how their warm-ups have improved their game.
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kent.ac.uk/sports
| Community
Vicky Annis, Physiotherapist at Kent Sport Physiotherapy Clinic, tells us the importance of warming up and how it can help prevent injuries and improve your game.
Warm-ups can be fun and with the Canterbury Ladies Hockey Club, the running part of the warm up is staggered so that the initial two minutes are deliberately at a jog pace where you should be able to talk to your team mates. It is a team sport after all! The pace then picks up gradually to get the players sweating by the end of eight minutes. Sideways, backwards and ‘grape vine’ movements are all included.
Warm-ups are often done incorrectly because people don’t understand their purpose.
Movements that are specific to hockey and areas of the body that are particularly vulnerable to injury also need some time and attention. This is why squats, lunges, jump squats and hip mobility are some of the exercises incorporated.
I have seen teams and individuals standing still and stretching half-heartedly and believing this is a warm up. A warm up should prepare you for what you are about to do. In hockey, for example, during the first minute of the game you may need to run in all directions, lunge and reach to intercept a ball or be sprinting towards an opponent during a penalty corner.
All of this is completed prior to the stick and ball work for the final preparations, especially if it is a different pitch as the ball may move differently.
Out and about Kent Sport is proud of its community links. We are the principal sponsor of Canterbury Ladies Hockey Club and host various charitable events including the Kent Messenger Big Quiz; the Pilgrims Hospices Firewalk and also their Cycle Challenge which sees 1,300 cyclists start and finish at the Pavilion prior to the University of Kent annual Cycling Festival. Kent Sport is the home of Gillingham FC’s academy which hosts the best young talent in the county training twice per week with matches on Sundays. The annual University of Kent Canterbury 10km race is also a highlight in the Kent Sport calendar and we welcome runners on campus every Saturday for parkrun. The Kent Sport Gold and Silver public membership is great value, with special offers available for the Easter and summer holidays. The Physiotherapy Clinic in the Sports Centre is also open to members of the public and operates at Polo Farm Sports Club every Thursday. We also provide work experience and volunteering opportunities, be it health and fitness, sports development, marketing or other aspects. If your team is interested in capturing Kent Sport’s vast knowledge or using our facilities, please email kentsportevents@kent.ac.uk. on the
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Development update 30 Move on the
Coming soon... Kent Sport is currently working with Kent Hospitality, Examinations, the Estates department and external consultants on an exciting project to create a state-of-the-art building which once opened will cater for more than just sport. This project is very much in the developmental stage with the aim being it will be fit for purpose and ready to use in 2019. As well as providing improved year-round tennis and netball facilities, it will include additional fitness equipment and become a focal point for more sport and activities.
Have an idea? Send us your thoughts on our Facebook or Twitter UniKentSports, letting us know what you think should be the next facility development.
kent.ac.uk/sports
| Development update
“We have a need to be everevolving and this is a project I know everyone will be excited about. It’s something that not only Kent Sport members will benefit from, but the whole University opening the doors to use for conferences, concerts and other large events. I’m looking forward to seeing it going from concept to reality.” Mel Clewlow Director of Sport (interim) Kent Sport
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Team Kent On the Move sits down with Fraser Inglis, the newest Vice President of Sport at Kent Union. What made you run for the role? This role gives me the platform to provide others with the opportunities and memories I have experienced. Sport makes up a large part of the student experience at university, so the chance to influence, improve and evolve this was a major driver for me to run for this role. How did you feel when you learned that you had been elected as Vice-President (Sports)? Relief and elation. I honestly felt a real variety of emotions, it’s nothing like I have ever experienced before. The campaign and the elections process was an incredibly exhausting and draining period, balancing it alongside university studies. I was, and still am, so excited to deliver on my manifesto and make sure the student body made the right choice. What activities do you participate in, or personally interest you? Throughout my time here, I have played for the University Football team, a sport I have grown up with. However, I am also an extremely
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keen cricketer, cyclist, and I love to run long distance in my spare time. What is the most satisfying moment in your sporting endeavours so far? The Canterbury Half Marathon last year for Bloodwise, a charity dedicated to help those suffering from blood cancer. Not only was it a physical achievement for me, I was able to run for a charity very close to my heart which makes it all the more satisfying. Why should students get involved in sport; what are the benefits? Sport is such a unique aspect of life. It offers a wide range of benefits including physical and mental health, development and excellence. It also provides students with memories they will carry with them for the rest of their lives. Sport at university also provides students with a strong community and a ‘home away from home’ which is vital for a good student experience. Out of the wide-ranging sports facilities and activities available on campus, what would be your favourite? I think the new 3GX – it is so versatile and is utilised by such a wide variety of sports. It has hosted magical varsity wins and really adds to the spectacle that the event is. What would you say to encourage students to get active and try new sport and fitness activities? Go for it. University is a time to try new things and really push yourself out your comfort zone – with the wide variety of sports clubs and activities available, you will find something for you. Activity leads to a healthy body and mind!
Kent Union student sports clubs How do I join a sports club? Sports clubs are a great way to get fit and enjoy sport, whether competitively or socially. Any student can join a sports club, regardless of ability or experience of the sport. To join a club, visit kentunion.co.uk/activities/ sport
What are the requirements? A club membership fee may be required. If your club trains using Kent Sport facilities then membership to Kent Sport will also be required. Other than that, just join up and have fun! To find out about Kent Sport membership, visit kent.ac.uk/sports/ membership
For updates on sport and fitness activities around campus, Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter UniKentSports.
kent.ac.uk/sports
| TBD
Join Kent Sport “I’ve had an amazing third year working out at Kent Sport. The staff are very helpful and I really enjoy coming here to train!” Talya, fourth year student
Profile on Kent Sport Staff
Opportunities everywhere
Andy Ma When life hands you lemons, you turn it into an opportunity. Andy joined Kent Sport on a work placement within the fitness suite which eventually turned a casual role. He worked throughout the facilities doing various jobs for different departments. A few years after graduating, Andy was officially offered a full-time contract with the duty team. Andy thoroughly enjoys working here and being part of the Kent Sport family.
“Working at Kent Sport has really allowed me to expand my knowledge base as well as helped me keep fit. I’m really grateful for the opportunity and just love the ‘family’ feel working with wonderful people day in and day out.” – Andy Ma, Duty Officer
Laetitia Pelacchi Laetitia began her career with Kent Sport through work experience. After becoming a casual employee and earning her MSc of Sport Science, she found herself in a covering position as Health and Fitness Instructor. Laetitia loves bringing a smile to client’s faces and making a difference in their lives. Every day she finds inspiration in her clients and it makes her proud to work at Kent Sport.
“Being part of the fitness team, I realise how lucky I am to be where I wanted to be and grateful to be part of Kent Sport family as I feel I can contribute and bring something to the team.” – Laetitia Pelacchi, Fitness Instructor
Max Campbell As a fresh spring chicken straight out of university, Max started his ‘Kent Sport journey’ in July 2010. He began at the Pavilion as a casual covering outdoor facilities, but within a few months he became a permanent member of staff as a Duty Sports Officer mainly focusing on indoor facilities. He is also a dedicated cricket player and the captain of the Canterbury Cricket Club.
“As each year passes, the students change, the job evolves, even the personnel is different, but one thing remains the same: the friendly, dedicated, professional and wonderful family I am proud to call my place of work – Kent Sport.” – Max Campbell, Duty Officer
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| Volunteering
Join our team! Kent Sport are always looking for enthusiastic and motivated individuals who have an interest in sport to help join our team in a variety of capacities. If you think you have the skills to provide excellent customer service, then check out our dedicated webpage for opportunities. kent.ac.uk/sports/jobs Volunteering opportunities We are also grateful to our volunteers who make a significant contribution to sport and fitness at Kent. Whether you want to build experience in photography, graphic design, event organisation, blogging about sport or find out what else you could get involved with, just email us at sportsenquiries@kent.ac.uk to find out more.
Looking to volunteer? copywriting · photography · videography · social media · graphic design · web design
“Volunteering with marketing at Kent Sport has been a fantastic opportunity which has allowed me to develop many skills through the variety of projects I’ve been able to get involved with, from social media, photography, to design. I have loved the flexibility of the role and how I have felt part of a professional team. I worked on Instagram and Facebook, the style guide and even attended the Kent Sporting Legends event where I met past and future Olympians which was fantastic. Thank you, Kent Sport!” – Devon, 2017 Graduate If you feel like you’d be the right fit, please contact Kent Sport Marketing at sportsenquiries@kent.ac.uk.
Volunteering points can be earned by successfully completing a volunteering post at Kent Sport. Visit kent.ac.uk/sports/jobs for current opportunities.
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Women in sport
The rise of the female powerlifter Talya Garnett, fourth year student and Kent Sport member, tells us how she got wrapped up in powerlifting. After having explored different forms of lifting weights, my progress started to plateau since I was lacking solid goals. In January 2017, I had had enough and decided to just focus on one thing – strength! Every fitness journey is personal and very specific, we all have things that drive us, and for me, I found the idea of being able to lift multiple times my body weight an exciting and empowering concept, especially as a female. I previously trained with Ben Roberts, Kent Sport fitness instructor, who trained in powerlifting before, so I asked him to create a plan specifically designed for me to help work towards my new goals. Fast forward three months – I was already entering my first competition! It was exciting and absolutely terrifying at the same time. Luckily I met MASS member, Ana Rojo-Echeburúa, who gave me some great pointers for training, then added me to one of the most supportive groups I have ever been a part of during my fitness journey – UKC MASS. All of them gave me so much support before my first meet, the South East Novice and Junior. Special mention needs to go out to Ana Rojo-Echeburúa and Ben Streatfield who came with me on the day to help coach me and put my nerves at ease. The meet went amazingly well and I can officially say I will be competing again this year! I’m proud to be a part of an incredible group that supports and caters to anyone’s fitness goals, which will soon have its own subsection specifically for powerlifting. If you are interested in getting a comprehensive plan to up your strength or fitness game, then stop by reception at the Sports Centre and ask to speak to a member of the fitness team who can provide personal training, nutrition and fitness consultations.
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kent.ac.uk/sports
| Trending sports
Japanese Swordmanship
The practice of swordsmanship has long been used in Japan to develop health, coordination, concentration and composure. The particular style of swordsmanship practiced at the University of Kent’s Kyojinkan Dojo is called ‘Battodo’”. ‘Batto’ refers to quick drawing and cutting with the sword; ‘do’ refers to a path of training that aims at Quidditch full development of the individual. The style follows the In the world of principles set out by Taisaburo Namamura Sensei, Harry Potter, Quidditch is a 10th Dan, the chief instructor of the Toyama magical competitive sport involving Ryu and the founder of Nakamura Ryu. flying contestants. In the real world, it Have a look at our fitness and blends fantasy with reality. Gameplay is dance timetable for classes. reminiscent to the books, though the sport has obviously been adapted to suit realworld constraints. The Flying Chaucers are a fun group who are always looking for dedicated members, so if you fancy giving it a go, contact Kent Union for more information.
Pickleball Have a new sport you’d like to shout about? Get in touch with us via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at UniKentSports and tell us what you think.
Pickleball is a fast-paced, competitive sport that has taken the University by storm. The rules are simple and the game is easy, but still provides the workout you’d hope to achieve from any racquet sport. Blending elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis, this game is a lot of fun.
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Gulbenkian theatre dance music comedy family film
Bike hire
and maintenance
‘The jewel in Canterbury’s artistic crown’ Audience member Offering a host of exciting events from top name comedians, live music, films, dance, theatre and family shows. Tickets & Information 01227 769075 www.thegulbenkian.co.uk
The Cycle Hub offers rental of high-quality bikes and accessories to everyone for up to eight hours, so you can get out and enjoy the campus or the beautiful Kent countryside! Visit kent.ac.uk/sports/cyclehub for more information about hiring bikes, route options and our expert mechanics.
Rental is inclusive for Kent Sport Gold and Silver members
Kent Sport | University of Kent | Canterbury | Kent CT2 7NL | 01227 827 430/823 623 sportsenquiries@kent.ac.uk | kent.ac.uk/sports
If you require this information in another format, please contact the marketing team by emailing sportsenquiries@kent.ac.uk or call 01227 823 623