Overview
Arkansas Children’s Nutrition Center is designed to offer a cutting-edge discovery in exercise science and nutrition that includes Physical Activity and Metabolism Core. It is a fully equipped laboratory with a modern ~1400 square-foot Laboratory for Active Kids and Families and a fully outfitted ~1800 square foot Fitness Facility, to support the research community, launch groundbreaking research and develop a real-world solution to promote physical activity and nutrition.
Mission and Goals:
- Examine the role of physical activity in normal growth and development in prevention of obesity in children.
- Examine the effect of fitness, physical activity, and nutrition on maternal health during pregnancy, pediatric growth and development, and cardiometabolic health, including identifying underlying biological mechanisms.
- Promote metabolic health starting at the beginning of life.
- Disseminate information regarding the impact of exercise, physical activity, and nutrition on diverse populations such as pregnant moms, children, and adolescents, all from diverse cultural backgrounds.
The Laboratory for Active Kids and Families
One of the few dedicated pediatric exercise physiology labs in the nation. This lab houses equipment necessary for exercise physiology studies, phlebotomy, and vital signs.
Fully-equipped Pediatric Exercise Test Lab
Two pediatric ergonomic cycles, both isokinetic and hand dynamometers, balance testing instrument, flexibility testing instruments
Dedicated Exercise Physiology Space
Three treadmills, Two gas exchange analysis systems, Pulmonary function testing unit and Biochemistry analyzer
Clinical Space
There is a clinical room en suite that facilitates biopsy or minimally invasive procedures
The Fitness Facility
The fitness facility is staffed by full-time certified exercise trainers: Alvin Dupens and Brandi Ryan.
For Controlled Exercise Training Studies
Outfitted with four treadmills, four recumbent bikes, and four elliptical machines.
For Studies in Pregnant Women and Children.
Easily adjustable equipment for resistance exercise that facilitate studies in pregnant women and children. Intensity can be closely monitored through heart rate monitors.
Space for free play, directed activities and class activities
Step benches, medicine balls, free weights, smaller gym equipment and mats.