To prepare students on the Master’s programme in ‘Health Sciences and Management’ at Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences for future careers in the fields of health promotion, prevention and health management, research projects and academic exchange form an integral part of the programme, alongside the acquisition of knowledge in the natural sciences, medicine and health sciences. To promote academic exchange on the topic of ‘exercise at altitude’, a group of students from the programme visited the Institute of Sports Medicine at the University of Innsbruck. The visit was led by Prof. Dr Robert Renner, Professor of Health Promotion and Nutrition and Programme Director of the Master’s programme, and Heike Holtappel, a research assistant at the Faculty of Life Sciences.
The students had the opportunity to gain first-hand insight into the Institute’s laboratories, which are equipped with state-of-the-art measurement facilities for performance diagnostics and biomechanics, and to discuss the positive effects of exercise and sport. The visit to the tribometer – a laboratory at the Institute of Sports Science in Innsbruck – was a highlight due to its unique length and design. The tribometer enables the investigation of friction and abrasion processes under sliding loads, such as those encountered whilst skiing and ice skating. Taking part in measurements of friction and wear forces, alongside two former Olympic luge athletes and the Institute’s staff, was a particular highlight for the students.
The programme was rounded off by a visit to the institute’s altitude chamber, which allows test subjects to stay inside for several days. By reducing the oxygen content and lowering the ambient air pressure, the effects of high altitudes on the human body can be simulated and investigated.
For the students, the visit to the University of Innsbruck was a valuable opportunity to gain hands-on experience of research and to expand their knowledge in the field of exercise and health. Prof. Dr Robert Renner sees potential for collaboration on future research projects with the Institute of Sports Science at the University of Innsbruck and looks forward to continuing this partnership.
