Self-control and endurance sport performance: Investigating the psychological processes underpinning successful athletic performance

Loughborough University is a top-ten rated university in England for research intensity (REF2014) and an outstanding 66% of the work of Loughborough’s academic staff who were eligible to be submitted to the REF was judged as ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’, compared to a national average figure of 43%.

Self-control processes are initiated when two competing goals are in conflict. The successful candidate will attempt to use existing models of self-control to investigate the psychological processes underpinning successful prolonged aerobic performance. For example, why are some athletes able to ‘dig deep’ and tolerate discomfort more than others? Can athletes be trained to resist the urge to reduce effort during endurance performance? These questions will be investigated through quantitative and experimental methods and it is recommended that a discussion with the primary supervisor takes place before any formal application is made.

Entry requirements
Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 Honours degree (or equivalent) in Psychology, Sport and Exercise Science or a related subject. A relevant Master’s degree and / or experience in one or more of the areas above will be an advantage.

How to apply
All applications should be made onlin, http://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/apply/research/
Under programme name, select ‘Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences’. Please quote reference number: SSEHS/IT/2

Contact details:
Dr Ian Taylor
[Email Address Removed]
01509 223274