In my first semester as an undergraduate researcher, I helped out with monitoring and collecting women's soccer data. They utilized the FirstBeat sensor program, and my research partner and I would monitor the real-time data through an app while the athletes were practicing. Our main focus was their Training Impulse or TRIMP scores which was a measurement of their training load based on their heart rate and the time of the session. Over the semester, I became more proficient in understanding the FirstBeat sensors and learned about the important aspects of a training session to prevent injury. I also had the opportunity to present at a PAWI talk (Physical Activity and Wellness Institute) about what our research entailed.
Next semester, I plan to help Dr. Naugle start a new project involving the effect of pitch count on young baseball players and why it is implemented into programs. I plan to continue working on undergraduate research throughout my educational career and use the skills I learn from it to help me further my future career.