University of Herts students make ‘marathon’ effort
L-R Sean Adnett, Skye-Lucia Moore and Jonathan Burridge finding time for some roadside cheering. Picture: Supplied by University of Hertfordshire - Credit: Picture: Supplied by University of Hertfordshire
A group of 30 physiotherapy students from the University of Hertfordshire gave post-event massages to runners raising funds for the Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society at this year’s London Marathon.
The students were there to support the runners in their efforts to raise £600,000 for the charity.
It’s the fourth year in a row that the university has run the event.
Ellie Smith, MS Society event organiser, said: “The students did a fantastic job of helping our runners recover after their marathons; we had brilliant feedback from runners who said it was just what they needed after their run.”
Students were assisted by Chris Monize, a local clinician, and Tracy Burge, a physiotherapist with extensive experience at elite sporting events.
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Karen Atkinson, professional lead for the physiotherapy programme, said it was “a way to be immersed in the experience without needing to be a runner.
“It’s a privilege to be part of this event.
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“The runners - some of whom have MS themselves - are inspirational.
“For our students it’s a really valuable experience providing an opportunity to contextualize their practice.
“Supporting the athletes at this event facilitates the development of problem solving skills needed to become competent professional physiotherapists.”
Student Skye-Lucia Moore said: “I’m privileged to have taken part in this inspirational event.
“I’ve really enjoyed working as part of a team, delivering much-needed care to these amazing runners, and also developing my soft tissue work in a real-life environment at the same time.”
Runners were impressed by the students’ skills after the punishing marathon.
One runner said: “I was a broken man, but the students have glued me back together!”
The University of Hertfordshire offers both undergraduate and postgraduate courses in physiotherapy, in addition to a number of short courses for professionals.
