Our Projects
At the Welsh Institute of Physical Activity, Health and Sport (WIPAHS) we harness the transformative power of physical activity and sport to improve health and wellbeing across Wales.
Explore our Recent Work
As a pan‑Wales research and evaluation network, we bring together world‑leading academics, practitioners, policy makers and communities to co‑design and deliver projects that address real‑world challenges in physical activity, health and sport. Each project demonstrates our commitment to co‑producing solutions, translating evidence into action, and building sustainable partnerships that make a tangible difference in people’s lives.
State of the Region Annual Report
WIPAHS were commissioned by West Wales Sports Partnership (WWSP) to undertake a data review and mapping exercise to establish a ‘State of the Reion’ baseline for sport, physical activity, health and recreation in West Wales. By translating data into insight, and insight into action, WWSP is positioning itself as a leader in regional collaboration and systemic change.
Challenging stereotypes and barriers to engagement
Evaluation of the #ifyougoigo programme in Torfaen followed 37 women over 10-week weeks. Addressing confidence, judgement and readiness barriers, supportive group experiences helped participants “borrow confidence” and prioritise wellbeing. Qualitative insights showed improved mindset and engagement, though continued activity proved harder without structure and support.
Developing equipment to facilitate inclusivity
This project involved creating inclusive pickleball equipment for visually impaired players. Co-designed and tested with users, the audible ball enhances confidence, enjoyment, and social inclusion, promoting accessible sport while fostering collaboration between researchers, communities, and partner organisations.
Improving Pupil Health with Physical Activity
Schools across Wales face growing pressure to deliver Health and Well-being outcomes with limited resources.
Discover how collaborative research is helping schools improve physical activity inform practice, and build a sustainable, nationwide approach forward.
Sporting Futures Wales
WIPAHS examined how targeted sport and physical activity programmes can support young people’s engagement, confidence, and long‑term participation, generating insights to inform more inclusive, evidence‑based practice and strengthen activity opportunities across Wales.
Scoot for the Stars
In collaboration with ScootFit, PhD student Cerys Cole is researching how hypermobility affects children’s physical activity, balance, coordination, fitness, and sport performance. The study includes a scooter-based intervention to assess hypermobility, promote activity, and support overall health in young people.
Welsh Swimming participation
WIPAHS supported the Black Swimming Association by providing research, insight and evaluation expertise, helping shape inclusive aquatic programmes, strengthen partnerships, and ensure initiatives are evidence-based, effective and responsive to the needs of underrepresented communities across Wales, driving long-term impact and meaningful community engagement.
Physical Activity Policy
WIPAHS led the PA‑EPI Wales Project to systematically assess how physical activity policies are implemented across sectors. The work identifies strengths, gaps, and priority actions, providing evidence-based recommendations to inform policy, investment, and long-term public health strategies in Wales.
Tackling Health Inequality
Through the Actif North Wales partnership, this project assessed how regional investments are supporting physical activity and tackling health inequalities across North Wales. The study highlights how resources are allocated, how organisations align with strategic priorities, and where inconsistencies in reporting and data collection occur.
Adolescent Walking
This project explores the potential of Nordic Walking as a way to support young people’s mental health and wellbeing. By combining a review of existing research with school-based taster sessions, the study examines both the benefits of the activity and how it is perceived by adolescents. Findings highlight significant benefits and challenges to engagement.
Outdoor Baby Activity
Babi Actif helps parents stay active outdoors with their babies during the first 1,000 days, supporting both child development and maternal wellbeing. Parents reported positive impacts on health and bonding, while surveys and focus groups highlighted the value of accessible, outdoor activity. The programme offered unique support, especially during the pandemic
University Mental Health
The BRIT Challenge engaged university students and staff in a UK-wide activity to promote mental health and wellbeing. Participants aimed to move 2,023 miles collectively, while raising awareness and funds. WIPAHS evaluated its implementation, providing insights to enhance engagement, support, and the positive impact of this challenge.
Sit Less, Move More!
This project focuses on how physical activity is discussed and supported within paediatric healthcare across Wales. Drawing on workshops and surveys from healthcare professionals, it highlights both the value placed on helping children to “sit less and move more” and the practical challenges of doing so.
Activity Outside Hours
The AEBSD Programme explores how schools can serve as active education settings by providing opportunities for physical activity beyond regular school hours. The pilot program engaged 13 individual schools across Wales and one federation across Wales, each tailoring their approach to meet local needs.
Parents Engagement
Focusing on families with pre-school children, this project explores the factors that shape parents’ engagement in community-based physical activity. Drawing on a systematic review of existing research, it highlights the role of beliefs, social influences, and access to affordable, suitable environments in supporting participation.
COVID-19 Experiences
This project explores the lived experiences of individuals affected by COVID-19 and long COVID, focusing on the often-overlooked social and psychological impacts of illness and recovery. Using a creative storytelling approach, the research brings together shared experiences into powerful narratives that reflect different recovery journeys over time. .
WIPAHS Development
Based on preliminary work exploring the ongoing development of WIPAHS, Dr Amie Richards has joined the HEPA/World Health Organization (WHO) Europe Early Career Researcher Development Programme. A set of Principles of Working have been generated for use by others to set-up their own institutes across Europe and beyond.
Women’s Network
As WIPAHS continues to grow and evolve, we are proud to have established our first Special Interest Group (SIG)—the Women’s Physical Activity, Health and Sport Network. This initiative reflects our commitment to fostering collaboration and driving meaningful research in key areas of physical activity, health, and sport.
