Professors Research Together to Collect Data in Exercise Science

In a research laboratory in the Department of Health, Exercise Science and Recreation Management on the University of Mississippi’s main campus, there is technology such as an isokinetic dynamometer and B-mode ultrasound sonography.  These devices can test muscle strength at different angles and speeds, as well as quantify muscle and fat mass. Dr. Jeremy Loenneke, assistant professor of exercise science, and Dr. Takashi Abe, visiting professor of exercise science, regularly use the technology to collect data during exercise.

Since 2010, the two professors have published approximately 60 peer-reviewed scientific papers together on a variety of topics. Their research is largely based on exercise in combination with blood flow restriction and age-related loss of muscle mass.

“This form of collaboration is important because you learn from each other’s skillsets,” Loenneke said. “Abe is well-known in the muscle area and has skills that I don’t possess, so this type of relationship is perfect. You learn from other people.”

Prior to work at UM, the researchers collaborated at the University of Oklahoma. Beginning in 2010, the two were involved in research devoted to muscular development and site-specific muscle loss. At that time, Loenneke was a doctoral student in health and exercise science; Dr. Abe was a visiting professor from Japan, most notably the University of Tokyo, a top 30 world-ranked research university. And when Abe became a visiting professor for Indiana University in 2011, the professors continued their collaborative research through e-mail and travel.

Although Loenneke uses Abe’s knowledge, the visiting professor emphasizes that the relationship is only collaboration.

“I’m not a mentor for Dr. Loenneke,” Abe said. “When I met him, he was interested in the same research as I. And from then on, we’ve worked together.”

Dr. Mark Loftin, associate dean of the School of Applied Sciences, indicated that research collaboration most often enhances both the quality and quantity of scholarship.

“Dr. Abe works very well with Dr. Loenneke, along with several other professors and graduate students in exercise science and health promotion,” said Loftin. “We are fortunate to have the services of both professors at the University of Mississippi.”