From left: Andreas Almqvist, Ann-Sofie Lindberg and Joakim Abrahamsson.
20 December 2024
The University's sports and health initiative awarded millions in funding
The Center for Sports and Performance Technology (SPORTC) at Luleå University of Technology has received a significant grant from Tillväxtverket, with support from Region Norrbotten, the Längmanska Entrepreneurial Fund, and LKAB. The commitment aims to establish a research and innovation environment for sports technology that strengthens research, elite sports, and public health, positioning Norrbotten as a leading region for sports research.
In collaboration with the Swedish Olympic Committee, the Swedish Ski Association, and the Swedish Biathlon Association, SPORTC is engaged in multidisciplinary, activity-based research in sports, health, and technology. The new initiative focuses on the HIIT project (Health, Sports, Innovation, and Technology). Together with small and medium-sized enterprises, larger actors, and the sports movement, the goal is to develop innovative and well-founded solutions that meet the real needs of sports, contributing to innovation and sustainable regional growth.
"We create synergy effects by combining research in physiology, biomechanics, psychology, and technology. This strengthens both elite sports and public health," says Andreas Almqvist, Director of SPORTC.
SPORTC already has successful collaborations with the Swedish Ski Association and the Biathlon Association, which have led to international championship successes. The new infrastructure enables advanced testing and sports technology development, taking the work to the next level.
A milestone
The project also focuses on social innovation and physical activity, with the goal of promoting public health and creating conditions for dual careers for elite athletes.
"This is a milestone that strengthens research, elite sports, and regional development," says Joakim Abrahamsson, Director of Elite Sports Dual Careers.
The commitment supports Norrbotten's strategic goals in smart specialization and meets the global development in sports technology.
"Norrbotten has all the conditions to become a leading region in the field, thanks to a strong business community, engaged sports actors, and our university," says Ann-Sofie Lindberg, Senior Lecturer in Physiotherapy.
Contact
Andreas Almqvist
Ann-Sofie Lindberg
- Senior Lecturer, Physiotherapy Programme Coordinator
- 0920-492373
- ann-sofie.lindberg@ltu.se
- Ann-Sofie Lindberg
Joakim Abrahamsson
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