Sports Proposition
At the University of Salford, we are passionate about driving the sports sector forward through pioneering research, cutting-edge technology, and world-class facilities. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our comprehensive range of expertise and knowledge, designed to meet the diverse needs of the sports industry. Whether you're looking to enhance athletic performance, leverage data, or engage fans through immersive media, we provide the tools and expertise to help you succeed. Join us in our mission to push the boundaries of sports innovation and make a lasting impact on the field.
How we can help you
Athletic Wellness and Performance
We enhance athletic performance through advanced research and technology. Our team specialise in three core areas: athletic performance, injury-prevention and injury rehabilitation.
Athletic Performance
/ Exercise Physiology Testing: Lab-based testing focusing on lactate threshold, maximal oxygen uptake, body composition and energy expenditure.
/ Specialist Equipment: Treadmill or cycle tests for endurance activities, measuring VO2max and lactate threshold.
/ Talent Identification and Scouting: AI algorithms and data science platforms to identify future talent.
/ Player Evaluation: Assessing player performance using data science and AI algorithms.
/ Scouting: Analysing vast amounts of athlete data globally to find promising players.
Injury Prevention
/ Research Integration: Adopting evidence-based injury-prevention strategies. This can lead to fewer injuries and more effective recovery for athletes.
/ Player Performance Tracking: Wearable technology and computer vision to monitor athletes’ movements, stamina and technique.
/ Injury Prediction and Prevention: AI models can predict injury risks based on historical data, biomechanics, and workload management, allowing for better training and recovery planning.
Injury Rehabilitation
/ Rehabilitation Programmes: Developing new physical therapy techniques and innovative rehabilitation equipment.
CASE STUDY
Hawkins Dynamics
With support from industry leader Hawkin Dynamics, the University of Salford conducted the largest force plate research project ever conducted in professional sport, with involvement of sports clubs from all over the world.
To find out more, visit salford.ac.uk/ news/salford-collaborate-leadingsports-technology-and-hardwaremanufacturer
CASE STUDY
Hilly Clothing LTD
The School of Arts, Media and Creative Technology worked with Hilly Clothing Ltd to design, develop and manufacture a complete range of technical performance apparel.
The Outcome:
/ Produce and design garments using computerised garment specifications
/ Increase in sales and market share
/ Better quality products and more accurate design
Human Movement and Biomedical Engineering
Our human movement and biomedical engineering experts are at the forefront of sports science innovation. Our work spans from developing wearable technology and biomechanics analysis to creating innovative rehabilitation techniques and equipment. By integrating engineering principles with sports science, we aim to improve athletic performance, prevent injuries, and support effective rehabilitation, ensuring athletes achieve their full potential.
Prosthetics and Orthotics
We offer state-of-the-art prosthetic and orthotic solutions designed to enhance mobility and performance. Our team of experts works closely with athletes to develop customised devices that meet their specific needs, ensuring optimal functionality and comfort.
Skin Physiology
Our research and development in skin health and performance focus on understanding the physiological aspects of skin under various conditions. This knowledge helps us create innovative solutions to improve skin health, reduce the risk of injuries, and enhance overall athletic performance.
Podiatry and Footwear Mechanics
We specialise in optimising footwear for athletic performance. Our podiatry experts conduct thorough assessments to understand the biomechanics of each athlete’s feet, allowing us to recommend or design footwear that maximises comfort, support and performance.
Gait Analysis
Our comprehensive gait analysis services are designed to prevent injuries and improve performance. Our state-of-theart gait analysis lab is equipped with force plates, video and motion capture systems, enabling us to conduct detailed 2D vector video and 3D-instrumented gait analysis. This allows us to identify any abnormalities or inefficiencies in an athlete’s performance and provide targeted interventions to enhance movement efficiency and reduce injury risk.
Bike Fit
The Salford Bike Fit Service has been delivered for over 20 years and has expertise in musculoskeletal anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and injury. The service provides solutions for endurance sport athletes ensuring that each bike fitting is tailored to the individual requirements of the athlete. By considering the rider’s strengths and limitations the Bike Fit team optimises the bike set-up to improve performance and minimise injury risk.
Orthosis Management and Provision
We offer expert management and provision of orthotic solutions to support athlete health and performance. Our team works closely with athletes to develop and fit orthoses that address specific needs, ensuring optimal support and functionality.
Biomechanics Analysis
Our advanced biomechanic analysis services involve detailed modelling of athletes’ physical movements. By using cutting-edge technology and expert knowledge, we can optimise training techniques, enhance performance, and reduce the risk of injury. Our biomechanic experts provide personalised recommendations based on thorough analysis, helping athletes achieve their full potential.
CASE STUDY
Hamstring strain injury risk reduction for athletes
Hamstring strain injuries within team sports have the highest rate of occurrence leading to financial and performance related burdens.
Our research on this topic has covered the diverse range of assessing the modifiable risk factors, observing methodological challenges, reporting reliability of varied measurements and measurement tools.
To find out more, visit hub.salford.ac.uk/ human-movement-and-rehabilitation/ sport-and-exercise/hamstring-straininjury-risk-reduction-for-athletes/
CASE STUDY
Partnership with Ottobock
Ottobock, market leaders in the field of prosthetics, are our partners in the Centre for Doctoral Training in Prosthetics and Orthotics (CDT). Through our valuable partnership with Ottobock, students gain direct insight into the cutting-edge technologies and real-world applications that drive the field forward. By connecting with athletes and professionals who rely on these innovations, our students are motivated to push the boundaries of what’s possible and contribute to a future where prosthetics and orthotics significantly improve the quality of life for those who need them.
Data Science and AI in Sports
Using AI to analyse both current and historic game data, we create optimised game strategies that enhance team performance. Our AI-enhanced game analysis and broadcasting solutions provide advanced insights and improve the viewing experience.
In the realm of sports betting and fantasy sports, we develop models that assist with fraud detection and predict game outcomes, ensuring fair play and engagement. Our market research capabilities allow us to analyse trends in ticket sales, merchandise, and sponsorships, informing effective marketing strategies.
Additionally, our data science models optimise travel, training schedules, and game day operations, significantly improving team efficiency.
Finally, our data analytics support contract and salary negotiations by helping teams and agents assess fair market value for players based on performance metrics and market trends.
CASE STUDY
Markerless biomechanical assessment to be used as a tool
Currently, most biomechanical data collection is undertaken in laboratories and is reliant on very expensive, timeconsuming and fixed 3D motion capture systems. We think the sport industry should move towards the use of the emergent markerless-based technology, which allows for rapid, high-volume data collection.
This project aims to establish the validity of markerless technology against 3D motion capture and its reliability when collecting biomechanical variables in their athletes biomechanical assessment protocol.
To find out more, visit hub.salford.ac.uk/ human-movement-and-rehabilitation/ knee-biomechanics-injury/markerlessbiomechanical-assessment/
Media and Immersive Technology
We offer a comprehensive suite of media and immersive technology solutions tailored for the sports industry.
Our management solutions for teams and athletes ensure streamlined operations and optimal performance. The stateof-the-art Esports Lab provides a cutting-edge facility for broadcasting and media training, while our innovative fan engagement platforms are designed to captivate and involve fans.
Through in-depth analyses of fan behaviour and market trends, we can offer valuable insights that drive effective strategies.
Access to top talent in sports journalism allows us to produce high-quality content, and our AI-generated match reports and player interviews enhance the efficiency of content creation. Additionally, our datadriven storytelling leverages statistical analysis to create compelling narratives that resonate with audiences.
CASE STUDY
Video analysis of match injury
Using video analysis and notation, the aim of this project was to identify if there are common performance, temporal, environmental, and contextual factors occurring at the time of musculotendinous injury within elite football (e.g., during accelerations, time-period within game, weather conditions etc).
By developing more holistically informed models of injury causation, it may be possible to develop a more tailored approach to injury risk reduction and rehabilitation.
To find out, visit hub.salford.ac.uk/human-movementand-rehabilitation/sport-and-exercise/video-analysisof-match-injury-within-elite-football/
Develop your people
From apprenticeships to developing specialised training regimens, conducting targeted research projects, or providing expert consultations, we are committed to delivering innovative solutions that drive performance and success in the sports world.
How we can help you:
/ Advanced training simulation programmes using THINK Lab facilities.
/ Innovative sports science labs supporting community engagement.
/ Curated courses to enhance your employees in every stage of their career.
/ Continuing professional development and training for sports professionals.
/ Access to state-of-the-art media facilities to aid media and broadcasting training.
Infrastructure and Fan Engagement
Our research and initiatives focus on developing state-of-the-art facilities and leveraging technology to create immersive fan experiences. By integrating innovative design, smart technology, and data-driven insights, we aim to improve the overall sports environment and foster deeper connections between teams and their supporters.
How we can help you:
/ VR walkthroughs of stadiums with immersive virtual reality experiences.
/ Tannoy announcements designed with the ability to create custom stadium announcements.
/ Sports facility management aided by data-driven management solutions.
/ Optimising stadium operations and crowd management with AI.
/ Manage your energy consumption for sustainability.
Facilities
Our facilities provide sports clubs with access to specialised research and practical rehabilitation resources:
Exercise Physiology Testing Labs – Equipped with advanced tools for comprehensive physiological assessments.
THINKLab – A hub for innovative research and simulation.
Gait Analysis Clinics – State-of-the-art labs for detailed gait analysis.
Podiatry Clinic – Specialised clinic for foot health and performance.
Prosthetics and Orthotics Labs –Cutting-edge facilities for prosthetic and orthotic development.
Human Performance Labs – Advanced labs for studying and enhancing athletic performance.
E-Sport Labs – Modern facilities for esports training and development.
Sports Centre – On campus, the University of Salford Sports Centre has 5 fitness suite rooms, a 25-metre pool, a dance studio, 30+ fitness classes a week, 6 court sports hall, 2 squash courts, a health hub, a floodlit 3G pitch and 2 grass pitches.
3G Pitches and Sports Hall
CASE STUDY
ThinkLab helping patients with breathing
THINKlab is working with the School of Health on a new high-tech project called OptiMuscle, which will help treat patients with dysfunctional breathing. The project will develop a new innovative and high-tech digital platform that will use a personalised avatar to help treat patients with breathing difficulties.
To find out more, visit thinklab.salford. ac.uk/2022/02/17/thinklab-and-theschool-of-health-develop-a-new-hightech-project-to-help-patients-withdysfunctional-breathing/
For more information about our services and how we can support you, please get in touch: innovation@salford.ac.uk
Population Health and Society
Improving exercise, physical activity and eating behaviours to enrich the daily lives of various population groups via targeted biomechanical, physiological, and nutritional assessments and interventions.
In addressing these issues, Salford’s research led to the first major update to clinical gait analysis methods in 40 years, impacting the work of 1,000 clinical laboratories worldwide, some 80% of the global sector. It challenged the occupational footwear sector’s focus on
accident prevention, redirecting it toward footwear to protect musculoskeletal health, resulting in a new company, strategy and products (>60,000 sold). It produced a patented rehabilitation technology that provides high-quality physical therapy without the need for highly skilled staff, resulting in a spinout company in China, investment of £2,000,000 and benefitting 1,350 patients in its first 18 months.
Fund your innovation
Our collaborative partnership approach is designed to address the frustrations that businesses face when they have innovative ideas but lack the internal expertise and funding to make it happen.
/ Engage in Knowledge Transfer Partnerships, fostering transformative changes and new products or services with 50-75% funding through Innovate UK.
/ The Industrial PhD program offers companies a competitive advantage by benefiting from new research insights specifically aligned to their most pressing innovation challenges.
/ The university also works with partners to develop collaborative research grant applications. This includes business-led projects in need of a research partner, as well as those led on by the university which require input from the sector.
Learn how to fund your innovation, visit salford.ac.uk/business/growyour-business
The Business Innovation Services team is committed to the businesses who we work with. It goes beyond collaboration; it is rooted in the strength of our relationships and the lasting impact of our hard work. For more information about how expertise and how we can support you and the sports industry, please get in touch: innovation@salford.ac.uk
