Message from Department Head, Lindsay DiStefano, Ph.D., ATC, FNATA
The Department of Kinesiology, in the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources at the University of Connecticut, promotes and optimizes health, wellness, and performance through research, community engagement, service and teaching excellence. We are extremely proud of our interdisciplinary approach to train the next generation of exercise and healthcare professionals through programs in athletic training (M.S.A.T.), exercise science (B.S., M.S., Ph.D.), physical therapy (D.P.T.), and exercise prescription (Graduate Certificate).
Our doctoral program in Exercise Science is nationally ranked among the top 10 programs by the National Academy of Kinesiology. We are honored to have two NAK fellows, Dr. Casa and Dr. Pescatello, among our faculty. This is a prestigious honor for our faculty and demonstrates our scholarly excellence. Read more.
Our Department
Providing students a dynamic and engaging learning environment that supports the growth and professional development necessary to excel within the field of athletic training.
Mentoring top-quality undergraduate and graduate students while advancing the application of evidence-based knowledge across the broad spectrum of exercise science – through research, education, practitioner training, and related scholarly activity.
Advancing the health and well-being of the citizens of Connecticut, the nation and beyond through research and the preparation of highly competent physical therapists prepared for general practice.
Recent Publication Highlights
Co-author Dr. Kwon: Mitochondrial-targeted antioxidants restore vasodilatory function in aged adults
Co-author Dr. Srinivasan: Means-end exploration indicates bilateral coordination and motor abilities in infants at-risk for autism
In the News
KSI created a resource for sport organizations, high schools, and college sport programs to return to sports safely during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dr. Douglas Casa, Ph.D. highlighted for his work in athlete safety and policy change
Dr. Casa, ESPN, Establishment of Korey Stringer Institute
Dr. Casa, NFL, Release of heatstroke prevention video
Dr. Casa, Men's Health, Training in the heat can improve performance
Students in the News
Kelsey Rynkiewicz
Kelsey Rynkiewicz, a third-year Ph.D. student in the Department of Kinesiology, is developing an app to better work with athletes. As an athletic trainer at Eastern Connecticut State University, she works with varsity-level athletes, helping to evaluate, diagnose, and rehabilitate injuries and illnesses. Since COVID-19 first reached Connecticut back in March and she was forced to work remotely, she was inspired to create an app to communicate with athletes and share exercises..
Daniel Yu
Daniel Yu, University Scholar (top 15 in class), Exercise Science senior undergraduate works in Dr. Lee's laboratory on projects studying 1) the effects of statins on Caenorhabditis elegans muscle and neuronal aging and 2) the impact of exercise on immune response to influenza vaccination.
Erin Flajnik
Erin Flajnik is a senior undergraduate, UConn Cheerleading veteran, and TME Mentor for the Exercise Science major. As a mentor, Erin uses a personalized approach to assist underclassmen in navigating what it means to be a Husky and assist them in exploring our program. Erin will pursue her post-graduate Doctorate of Physical Therapy degree in a highly competitive program at Mass General Hospital Institute of Health Professions in Boston, MA.