Five third-year physiotherapy students from the University of Winchester held a Mobility and Strength screening evening for members of a Hampshire-based cycling club earlier this month. 

The students were supervised by Liam Newton, a physiotherapist by background, who is the manager of the university’s Winchester Health Clinic.

The assessments for the 11 VC Venta cyclists, who included junior and senior members, tested key muscle groups, strength and movement. The collated data were used as the basis for individual strength and exercise plans which were sent to each cyclist. It is hoped they will return in six months for a progress check. 

Liam said: ‘The students really enjoyed this exercise. Not only did they carry out the tests well they managed to cope with the time pressure. Each student was responsible for two exercise stations and all the 11 Venta members completed all 10 tests within the hour allotted.’ 

The students who conducted the tests wereTom Vernon, Amy Turner, Nathan Sanders, Toby Marcroft and Libby Smith. 

The session was ‘great fun’

Toby Leyland, VC Venta’s Race team manager, said: ‘The mobility tests allowed each rider to get an accurate, reliable measurement on various aspects of their mobility and an opportunity to discuss ways to improve their all-round and cycle specific mobility. 

‘This was an excellent session, well put together, great fun and informative for all the riders involved. We are looking forward to continuing the collaboration in 2025.’ 

As part of the University’s commitment to real world learning, undergraduate students on the BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy degree programme work alongside Liam during placements as part of their studies. 

Liam has offered to arrange similar sessions for other sports clubs in the area. For more information, email winchesterhealthclinic@winchester.ac.uk