Steve Haake

Professor Steve Haake is a Professor of Sports Engineering and Director of Engagement at the Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre (AWRC) at Sheffield Hallam University. He holds an OBE for services to sport and has contributed significantly to global sports engineering and public health initiatives. His research focuses on translating sport technologies into healthcare solutions, such as using parkrun’s model to improve chronic disease management.

Education:

• BSc (First Class) in Physics, University of Leeds
• PhD in Experimental Mechanics, Aston University (sponsored by the Royal and Ancient Golf Club)

Roles and Affiliations:

• Chair of parkrun Research Board and Active Travel Advisory Board (Sheffield City Region)
• Consultant to the International Tennis Federation, Adidas, and Callaway Golf
• Founding Editor of Sports Engineering and creator of the International Sports Engineering Association

Research Interests:

Steve’s work bridges sports engineering and public health, emphasizing mass participation initiatives like parkrun. He investigates how physical activity improves mental and physical wellbeing, particularly for marginalized groups. Recent studies highlight parkrun’s role in cardiac rehabilitation, cost-effectiveness, and community cohesion.

Awards and Recognition:

• OBE (2020)
• EPSRC Senior Media Fellowship (2010)
• RISE Leader (2014)

Grants and Labs:

He leads the AWRC, a multidisciplinary center applying sport innovations to healthcare. His team has secured EPSRC funding for projects on cycling aerodynamics, tennis equipment, and breast biomechanics in sports bras.