The long-term benefit of Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games venues will be enhanced if exercise experts are engaged early in the design process.
In a submission to the Brisbane 2032 100-day infrastructure review, the Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA) stated that from track design to changeroom layouts, accredited sport scientists and physiologists should be involved to maximise the long-term value of venues.
ESSA General Manager of Stakeholders and gold medal Olympian Duncan Armstrong said engaging these experts would ensure evidence-based strategies were employed to enhance sports performance, injury prevention, and community health initiatives.
Mr Armstrong said infrastructure was needed to deliver a “fantastic” Games, but it also needed to provide sustainable benefits for the region in sports, public place activation and physical activity.
“Sports scientists and exercise physiologists can help optimise the infrastructure design process not only to enhance the Games experience, but to ensure these public assets provide ongoing benefits to future generations.”
He said the ESSA submission also recommended the Government prioritised multi-use, accessible, and connected infrastructure, with venues and public spaces designed to support both elite sports and community engagement.
“The infrastructure should promote ongoing physical activity, public health, and active transport by ensuring safe, functional, and inclusive spaces for all users.”
