The Faculty of Physical Culture at Palacký University Olomouc (FTK UP) has established a closer partnership with one of the world’s leading universities in the field of sport and physical activity – Auckland University of Technology (AUT).
During a recent visit to New Zealand, a series of inspiring meetings, presentations, and idea exchanges took place between FTK UP and the School of Sport, Exercise and Recreation at AUT, which operates under the Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences. The key contact person and driving force of this cooperation at AUT is Professor Erica Hinckson, a long-standing expert in the area of physical activity and environment, and a leading figure in the international project IPEN – The International Physical Activity and Environment Network.
AUT ranks among the world’s top 50 universities in sport and exercise science (QS World University Rankings). Students can choose from a wide range of bachelor and master programmes, such as Health and Physical Education, Sport and Exercise Science, or Sport Leadership and Management. More details on AUT study options can be found here: AUT study programmes.
AUT provides a strong foundation in top-class research centres, including:
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand (SPRINZ) – a globally recognised institute focusing on health, wellbeing, physical activity, and performance optimisation.
- AUT Millennium – a modern research and sports training facility that serves both elite athletes (including the national rugby team, the All Blacks) and the wider community, housing the Human Potential Centre, Sports Performance Clinic, and Traumatic Brain Injury Networ.
- REPS – Registration body for Exercise Professionals and Facilities – the national organisation supporting and accrediting fitness and exercise professionals.
Discussions with AUT colleagues led by the Vice-Dean for International Relations, dr. Michal Kudláček, revealed many shared areas of interest – from physical activity and wellbeing in relation to the environment (Prof. Erica Hinckson, Julie McPhee), to youth development and coaching (Simon Walters), behavioural aspects of nutrition and physical activity (Scott Duncan), prevention of chronic diseases (Tom Stewart, Lisa Mackay), and exercise physiology (Ed Maunder, Matt Wood).
These meetings confirmed the significant overlaps between AUT’s School of Sport, Exercise and Recreation and FTK UP. Both institutions are now looking forward to strengthening research collaborations and creating new opportunities for student and staff mobility.
