Biography:

 

Chris Napier is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biomedical Physiology & Kinesiology at Simon Fraser University and Director of the SFU Run Lab. His research explores the biomechanical and training load factors that influence running performance and injury risk, using an integrated combination of laboratory-based testing, wearable technologies, and field-based measurement to better understand athletes under real-world conditions.
A major and growing focus of his research programme is female athlete health and performance. His work examines how menstrual cycle-related hormonal changes influence running biomechanics, physiology, and performance, with the goal of improving understanding of how female-specific factors should be considered in sport science, training, and injury prevention. He also leads research in breast biomechanics and breast support, investigating how breast motion, sports bra design, and sports apparel influence comfort, biomechanics, and athletic performance. More broadly, his research examines the interaction between footwear, apparel, biomechanics, training load, and injury.
Chris brings a strong clinician–scientist perspective to his work. He actively practises as a sport physiotherapist at Restore Physiotherapy in Vancouver, specializing in the assessment and treatment of running-related injuries, and has worked with athletes ranging from recreational runners to elite and professional competitors. Chris currently serves as a physiotherapist for Athletics Canada and has been a member of the Canadian medical team at multiple World Championships, Pan American Games, Commonwealth Games, and both Summer and Winter Olympic Games. He completed his Master of Physiotherapy in 2003 and Diploma of Sport Physiotherapy in 2007, before earning his PhD in Running Biomechanics and Injury Prevention from the University of British Columbia in 2018. He is the author of the bestselling book Science of Running and regularly speaks internationally on running biomechanics, injury prevention, performance, and female athlete health.