Fredrik Tonstad Vårvik

Fredrik Tonstad Vårvik is a Research Fellow at the Department of Sport Science and Physical Education at the University of Agder. His primary focus is on optimizing in-season resistance training for team sport athletes, with particular emphasis on maintaining muscle size, strength, power, and match freshness throughout competitive seasons.

His research interests span several key areas in sports science:

• Resistance training methodologies for athletic performance
• Sports nutrition, particularly regarding recovery and performance
• In-season strength and power development for team sports
• Female athlete-specific training adaptations
• Power training and plyometrics

Vårvik's recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on in-season training optimization for various team sports, particularly handball. His research frequently compares heavy load strength training versus power- and plyometric training programs, examining their effects on athletic performance, muscle adaptations, and recovery. Several studies investigate nutritional interventions, especially carbohydrate and supplement strategies, to enhance training outcomes.

As an educator, Vårvik teaches exercise physiology, strength training (both theory and practice), and sports nutrition. He is affiliated with the SPADE research group (Sports Performance and Athlete Development Environments) and serves as a consultant for Olympiatoppen Sør (Norwegian Olympic Committee).

His academic background includes two bachelor's degrees (in Sports Science and Nutrition), a master's degree in Exercise Physiology, and the IOC Sports Nutrition diploma.