October 2024
Women's health in sport to top agenda at university conference
By Melanie Hall
Share post:Read time: approx 4 mins
University College Birmingham is set to host its sixth annual Sports Performance and Rehabilitation Conference (SPARC), with women's health in sport and exercise firmly at the top of the agenda.
Anyone interested in this year's theme - exploring everything from menstrual health to menopause in sport - can book onto the day-long event here. The event is free for University College Birmingham students, £45 for everyone else.
This year's keynote speaker is Izzy Moore, Associate Professor in Human Movement and Sports Medicine at Cardiff Metropolitan University, whose PhD focused on the biomechanics and physiology of female runners. She also co-leads Wales’ Women’s Reproductive Health Public and Patient Involvement group to help place the voices of experts at the heart of sport and exercise medicine research.
Physiotherapists for the Home Nations national women's rugby teams will also be sharing their insight at the academic and networking event around elite sports, performance and rehabilitation.
Laura Hodgkiss, Head of the Department of Sport at the University, said: “We are thrilled to announce that SPARC is back this year, with a focus on women’s health in sport.
"This unique event promises insightful discussions, expert presentations and invaluable networking opportunities. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or simply passionate about health, sports and wellness, this conference is tailored to empower and educate.
"Join us as we explore crucial topics such as injury prevention, nutrition and mental wellbeing. Mark your calendars and be part of this groundbreaking initiative to support women’s sports and holistic health."
The conference will be the largest focusing on women's health in the UK this year and will feature sessions on the key pillars of women’s health in sport and exercise, including:
- Pelvic health
- Menstrual health
- Menopause
- Injury prevention and management
- Sports coaching
Our sponsors Matrix, Rocktape, Endometriosis UK and PostureMatters will also be delivering workshops throughout the day.
This conference is ideal for professionals with an interest in sport, exercise and human performance, such as professionals working in sports medicine, coaching/training, rehabilitation and nutrition, as well as students. Anyone with an interest in sport and exercise is also welcome.
See the fantastic line-up of guest speakers below.
Guest speakers
This year's speakers include physios, doctors, PHD scholars, teaching fellows and educators, all with expertise in the area of women and health in sport. Scroll through to see the line-up.
To find out the programme itinerary and more about the guest speakers, as well as buy tickets, please visit ww.ucbsparc.com
Find out more about courses and facilities within our Department of Sport, and the opportunities available to students.
Check out our latest news stories

University welcomes MP to explore city-wide opportunities for young people
Preet Gill MP joins UCB staff on campus tour, exploring how her Edgbaston constituents could benefit from UCB's prov…
Read more
Chelmsley Starters and Bluebell Wood officially opened by Saqib Bhatti MP
Saqib Bhatti MP joins other guests and VIPs at the official opening event for the Chelmsley Starters culinary school…
Read more
Contextual admissions – your personal path to progress
University College Birmingham launches it's contextual offers scheme, widening participation for under-represented students.
Read more
Business students travel to infinity in Global Entrepreneurship Week conference
The theme of this year's student learning conference could scarcely have been more relevant.
Read more
Chelmsley Wood's Bluebell Wood eatery welcomes high-profile visitors
Bluebell Wood welcomes high-profile guests and the highest environmental health rating of 5.
Read more
University’s Guild of Students officers add their voice to national debate
UCB Guild of Students join a national debate on the post-16 white paper.
Read more









