Where applied human research & real-world fitness applications collide


From ideation to research to program design and implementation, the lab’s multi-disciplinary team strives to bridge-the-gap between laboratory research and the real-world application of health-fitness practices by leveraging Digital Health technologies.

Dr. Brett A. Dolezal, PhD

Respect For All Individuals

My current experience as both researcher and teacher has strengthened my commitment to the cultural and ethnic diversity that enriches this university. I would be remiss if I did not comment on my ability to work successfully with students and colleagues in a culturally diverse environment such as that found at UCLA. I know that every student arrives at college with a set of values which reflects his or her upbringing. I also understand the meaning of the word tolerance; in fact, I believe teaching to be a cross-cultural encounter. As I mature and become wiser, I no longer choose to look at people as black or white, big or small, rich or poor; instead, I choose to see people as human beings sharing common goals and aspirations. I respect individuality while promoting respect for others. I believe that good professors really teach a way of life, a way of embracing the human race by nurturing individual human beings. My research lab is focused on creating an inclusive and respectful environment for students from diverse backgrounds. This enables us to engage in the quest for knowledge and skills together with a mutual respect for science, curiosity and difference of opinion.

*** NEW starting Fall 2024 ***  

UC Fit as an Academic Incubator 

 Academic incubators are vibrant environments within a university aimed at promoting innovation and entrepreneurship by linking students with startups, investors, and industry specialists.  In contrast to conventional classrooms, these incubators offer practical chances for students to cultivate, evaluate, and implement their ideas in authentic environments.  Academic incubators foster risk-taking and practical experience, enabling students to develop entrepreneurial abilities, establish strategic collaborations, and receive market exposure.   They connect academia with industry, enabling students to transition seamlessly from the classroom and laboratory to jobs as innovators and leaders.  UC Fit exemplifies this concept by functioning as a translational research laboratory for exercise and sports science.  It gives student interns opportunities in the lab as well as off-site with digital health start-up enterprises to develop unique, cutting-edge research collaborations. 

UC Fit Digital Health has a focus on applied exercise physiology. It serves as a community hub for translational research and a clinical resource for lifestyle-wellness-fitness interventions emphasizing evidence-based practices.

Changing the world is possible. We’ve done it before.

While these collaborations have been fruitful, we are appealing for an even more robust relationship.  A strategic partnership that is bidirectional; where the industry would have a residence within the university and allow synergy to our research labs, equipment, staff, and expertise, while giving UC Fit Digital Health researchers and students direct access to industry professionals, thereby building a network of knowledge that is mutually beneficial. What follows is a list of benefits of an industry-sponsored laboratory.

Collaborations

The Fitness Prof strives to promote good fitness habits using an evidence-based methodology with an extensive emphasis on exercise and physiology. Learn more from Dr. Brett Dolezal, the Fitness Professor, below.

The Fitness Prof

UC Fit partners with PeakFit, an athletic performance training, and testing center in Sun Valley, Idaho PeakFit's exercise-health department functions as a satellite research facility and mobile site for UC Fit, conducting research at high altitude from their facility that sits 1 mile above sea level. The exercise-health department utilizes cardiopulmonary and metabolic analysis methods and equipment developed and used in the UC Fit in a commercial setting. With former AEPRL staff analyzing PeakFit, athletes and newcomers receive clinical-grade analysis paired with evidence-based training modalities. PeakFit additionally offers altitude-based training camps, cardiopulmonary analysis, and mobile testing for athletes living at altitude. 

Affiliated Labs: PeakFit

Affiliated Labs: Q24Training

Q24 Training is a dynamic and innovative professional development platform designed to empower individuals and organizations with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in today's rapidly evolving business landscape. Offering a diverse range of courses, workshops, and resources, Q24 Training combines cutting-edge content with a flexible, online learning environment to cater to the unique needs of learners. Whether you're seeking to upskill in technology, enhance leadership capabilities, or expand your expertise in various industries, Q24 Training provides comprehensive, up-to-date, and accessible educational solutions to help you achieve your career and organizational goals.

Live Demos: VO2 Max

UC Fit conducts various live demonstrations to educate and instruct interns on skills that are useful in the workforce and the inner workings of exercise-physiology.

 

“Those who think they have not time for bodily exercise will sooner or later have to find time for illness.”

-Edward Stanley (Former Member of British Parliament, 19th Century)

Intern Spotlight: August Blatney

August Blatney is a 4th year Biology major and Spanish minor from Philadelphia, PA. He loves to stay active by playing water polo, swimming, surfing, volleyball, and golfing. He hopes to pursue a career in medicine.

To meet the rest of our interns, click on the button below!

Laboratory Donations