Who am I, and how am I qualified to test at your establishment?

Tracey Hunt, MSc Exercise and Nutrition Science, BSc (HONS)

Both my grandmother and mother suffer from osteoporosis. For this reason, many of the modules I took in order to pass my Master’s Degree focused upon the disease, including a case study of an osteoporotic woman for a module entitled Exercise, Nutrition and Ageing, and a critical appraisal of three scientific papers looking at the effects of resistance exercise on bone mineral density for my “Exercise and Health” module.

A number of studies, including the one I conducted for my Master’s degree, have demonstrated that the correct exercise reduces risk of osteoporosis and fracture risk in later life. People who come to me know that my knowledge is up to date, as I am continually learning new things through reading and research. Finally, osteoporosis has severely affected my family. I am very passionate about helping people to prevent this disease.

I also completed my own 12-week study on the effects of resistance exercise upon bone density in post-menopausal women. For my study, I used a quantitative ultrasound scan (also known as QUS) to monitor the changes in bone density of the volunteers: the same test as will be used here.

I have 18 years’ experience in the health and fitness industry and have been running Osteoporosis Awareness days like this since 2006. I set up the Health 4 Work initiative at the University of Chester. An initiative that looks at improving health and well being among the university staff. The initiative is still running at the university! I have also written my own scientifically based information booklet “Osteoporosis – the silent killer,” which is in general circulation at the University, and I regularly give exercise, nutrition and lifestyle advice to those concerned about osteoporosis and its effects.

I am also a member of Fitness Professionals, and a professional member of the National Osteoporosis Society. I keep my knowledge up to date with a regular subscription to Osteoporosis International and Osteoporosis Review.

Where have I tested?

My main source of employment is at universities, where I run testing days for the staff that work there, through the university’s sports centre, fitness facilities or well-being teams. I have also tested in private and council run health clubs, fitness centres and gyms, and workplaces, including multinational corporations. I have also held testing days at schools and colleges.

Away from osteoporosis, I work as a fitness instructor and personal trainer where I get to practice what I preach!

I also completed my level 3 diploma in Sports Massage in 2017 which I passed with a merit! In 2018 I opened my own Sports Massage Studio in Pulford, Chester! For more information about sports massage click here.