Rebecca Battista

Rebecca (Becki) Battista is a Professor of Exercise Science in the Department of Public Health and Exercise Science at Appalachian State University, and Director of the Office of Student Research. She leads initiatives to support student research and promotes physical activity interventions for children and youth. As part of the Healthy Outdoor Play and Exercise (HOPE) Lab, she collaborates on interdisciplinary projects focused on outdoor physical activity promotion. Her roles include mentoring junior faculty and leading college-sponsored writing retreats within the Beaver College of Health Sciences. Becki has been at App State since 2009, actively engaged in both academic and community health initiatives.

Her research emphasizes environmental and behavioral factors influencing physical activity, especially in rural populations. Key areas include pandemic-era activity patterns, park prescriptions, and leveraging technology like geocaching to engage youth. She has contributed to policy discussions around physical education standards and healthcare provider roles in prescribing outdoor activities. Becki’s work often bridges exercise science with public health to address disparities in active living opportunities.

Her scholarship spans over two decades, with notable contributions to understanding menarche timing impacts on athletic performance, injury recovery in adolescents, and the efficacy of interventions in childcare settings. Though no formal awards are listed, her leadership roles in international organizations and sustained academic output reflect her established reputation in the field.

Advising and mentoring have been central to her career, co-founding a departmental ‘Boot Camp’ for junior faculty development that evolved into the interdisciplinary HOPE Lab. Her advocacy extends beyond academia through community engagement, including supporting App State athletics and promoting mountain trail activities.