Leeds United Health Hub Testing

Building on our previous insights into the Leeds Beckett University and Leeds United FC partnership, we are delighted to share a follow-up that highlights the practical impact of having advanced sport science facilities on the club’s doorstep. 

Incorporating feedback from Leeds United FC’s first team head of nutrition, Elise McVicar, this update from Health and Performance Hub radiographer, Marina Alexander, demonstrates how proximity, expertise, and collaboration are driving both immediate and long-term benefits for players, staff, and students.

Following their championship triumph and promotion back to the Premier League, Leeds United players returned to Leeds Beckett’s Health and Performance Hub last week for an end-of-season DEXA scan. Having Leeds Beckett’s state-of-the-art facilities and expert staff close at hand has been beneficial for the team. 

As the club’s nutritionist, Elise McVicar, notes, “Having the facilities close has been so helpful in streamlining our testing process. The players can come get their scans/tests and head straight to the training ground with limited interruption to a normal training day. It helps with compliance and is also helpful for any last-minute needs.”

DEXA scans, performed at key points throughout the season, provide the nutritionist with highly accurate data on body fat, lean mass, and bone density. This enables tailored nutrition recommendations that evolve as the season progresses.  Elise tells us that “doing DEXA scans periodically allows me to check in on how well players are fuelling and recovering throughout key points of the season. The accuracy of the scan gives me confidence in making changes to their nutrition recommendations to help them feel better on the pitch.” She further explains that “by looking at lean mass, bone density and body fat, we have a comprehensive picture of each player and as a performance team, we’re able to identify individual body composition goals for health and performance. Testing throughout the year then encourages the right behaviours and helps them stay on track in hitting their goals.”

The relationship between Leeds Beckett and Leeds United goes beyond access to facilities; it’s about fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. Elise adds “It’s great to not only use the facilities and work with the staff at Leeds Beckett, but also to be able to tap into the student population as interns.” 

The collaboration provides students with invaluable hands-on experience, working alongside elite athletes and practitioners, and ensures that the latest research and best practices are translated directly into the professional sporting environment.