Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Ottawa –

Retraining the automatic reaction to physical activity and sedentary stimuli in geriatric patients

Most individuals are aware of the benefits to health of regular physical activity and have good intentions to exercise.

Yet, 1.4 billion people worldwide are inactive, which suggests that turning intention into action can be challenging.

His research aims to close the “intention-action” gap when it comes to exercise for geriatric patients.  Dr. Boisgontier will train geriatric patients to suppress their attraction towards being sedentary and to respond positively to physical activity.  The results will inform public health policies and improve clinical interventions to counteract the growing international issue of physical inactivity.

Recipient of a Banting Discovery Award.