MISFIT: Maximising Inclusiveness in Sports through Female-centric Innovation and Technology
Project lead: Dr Sharon Dixon
Other project staff: Dr Jo Reeves
Despite the well-documented benefits of regular participation in physical activity, including improved physical and mental health, women are not well-supported in continuing in sport and exercise as they age. In particular, a lack of understanding of the activity behaviours and the absence of gender- and age- specific equipment such as footwear, hamper inclusiveness. This project aims to contribute to supporting sustained physical activity in a population that has been underserved by research in this area.
Researchers at the University of Exeter are working with industry partners KYMIRA and CPI to deliver a wearable activity monitoring system customised to the needs of older women. In collaboration with Ida Sports, a company that specialises in sports footwear for female participants, the new technology will be applied to the development of footwear.
Researchers from VOICE, National Innovation Centre for Ageing, at the University of Newcastle are supporting user groups to understand user needs and requirements. Together with survey results and 3D footscans, these data are being used to tailor footwear designs to the requirements of active older women for multisport participation.
The two-year MISFIT project is supported by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) funding as part of the Healthy Ageing Challenge, and builds on an Innovate UK Healthy Ageing Catalyst project with industry partner Cosyfeet.
News and media
- Cosyfeet project blog
- Experts developing wearable technology to support women to remain active as they age
- New shoe helps older women stay active
Related publications:
- Reeves, J., Williams, A., Dixon, S. (2022). “I’m more comfortable in a wide-fit shoe”. The footwear needs and preferences of older adults in racket sports. Journal of the American Podiatric Association 112(5)
- Lilley K, Stiles V, Dixon S (2022). The influence of design variations in footwear medial-lateral support on the running biomechanics of older female runners. Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers Part P - Journal of Sports Engineering and Technology, 236(1), 53-59.
- Lilley K, Stiles V, Dixon SJ (2011). A Biomechanical Comparison of the Running Gait of Mature and Young Females. Gait and Posture, 43, 496-500.
