A senior figure at Robert Gordon University (RGU) is finding new and innovative ways of putting his charity efforts to good use, by volunteering to be tested by a group of Sport and Exercise Science students.
Andrew Lamb, head of the Graduate School at RGU, is busy training week in and week out, having signed up to cycle from Land’s End to John o’Groats later this year to raise money for Samaritans.
In the run up to the 986 mile challenge, Andrew has teamed up with the School of Health Sciences to support students studying the Integrated Sport and Exercise Science module.
This module aims to develop the students’ ability to integrate sport and exercise disciplines – such as nutrition, psychology, biomechanics and physiology – in order to enhance performance of both individuals and groups.
Andrew has put himself forward to be assessed by a group of students, which includes measuring his joint angles and stamina while cycling, as well as strength tests and developing a dedicated training programme.
Andrew said: “This cycling challenge is something that means a lot to me and I’m very much looking forward to supporting the work being done by Samaritans.
“The fact that I can combine that with supporting the learning of our students is a fantastic added bonus and has been a real pleasure over the past few weeks.”
Bryan McCann, lecturer in Sport and Exercise Science, said: “On behalf of the School of Health Sciences, I would like to thank Andrew for putting himself forward as a volunteer for our students and working so closely with them.
“Not only does he get a dedicated training programme, but this has been a great opportunity for the students – undoubtedly the coaches and sport scientists of the future – to put their learning into practice with a real person. Hopefully Andrew has also found it a helpful experience as he prepares for his exciting challenge.”