Jan Helgerud

Jan Helgerud is a Professor at the Department of Circulation and Imaging, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU). His research focuses on exercise physiology, sports science, and rehabilitation medicine, with a particular emphasis on topics such as aerobic and anaerobic performance, strength training adaptations, and the physiological responses to exercise in various populations, including elite athletes, patients with chronic conditions, and individuals with spinal cord injuries.

His work spans interventions involving high-intensity interval training (HIIT), maximal strength training, and digital health tools to assess and improve cardiovascular fitness and functional capacity. Key areas of investigation include the physiological determinants of endurance performance, the efficacy of exercise interventions for disease management (e.g., long COVID, obesity, rheumatic diseases), and the biomechanical and cardiovascular adaptations to training. He is affiliated with the AHL Center at NTNU, where he contributes to interdisciplinary research on human performance and health.

Recent studies highlight his focus on optimizing training methodologies for diverse groups, including elite cyclists, cross-country skiers, and patients undergoing rehabilitation. His research frequently employs advanced physiological measurements, such as cardiac output assessment and metabolic analysis, to evaluate training outcomes. Collaborations with clinical and sports science researchers underscore his commitment to translating evidence-based exercise strategies into practical applications for improving health and athletic performance.