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Dr Marlize DeVivo

Marlize graduated from the University of Pretoria (South Africa) with an undergraduate degree in Human Movement Science and an honours degree in Biokinetics. She practised as a registered Biokineticist (i.e. specialised exercise therapist) serving various clinical and athletic populations before relocating to the UK. Marlize then completed a MSc in Applied Sport and Exercise Science with distinction at Staffordshire University. In 2012, she was awarded a Graduate School scholarship to conduct a PhD in Sport and Exercise Science at Canterbury Christ Church University. Marlize delivered a multiphase research project with the aim of understanding and predicting the physical activity behaviour of pregnant women. Through this and other related research activities, she established physical activity during pregnancy as a research theme at Canterbury Christ Church University.

Dr De Vivo’s main research interest and endeavour involves the promotion and support of active pregnancies and normalising this behaviour in the wider society. Recently, this involved updating the Exercise Works! teaching resources in line with the Department of Health’s (2017) new guidelines for physical activity during pregnancy.

In her role as postgraduate research fellow, Marlize is involved in various projects related to physical activity and health. She is currently involved in the European funded (Interreg 2 Seas) Diabetes and Wellbeing (DWELL) project which aims to empower individuals to self-manage their type 2 diabetes through education, nutrition, physical activity and wellbeing activities.

In addition to her research engagements, Dr De Vivo is also a practising Sports Rehabilitator and Trainer (GSR) registered with the British Association of Sports Rehabilitators and Trainers (BASRaT). Marlize provides consultancy services through SportsLab and has a particular interest in injury prevention and final phase rehabilitation. She works in collaboration with Sports Scientists, Physiotherapists, and Strength and Conditioning Coaches to ensure the best possible outcomes for athletes.

Research Projects

  • Development and feasibility of a swimming programme as a rehabilitation modality for people with chronic low back pain: A mixed methods project.. Researcher(s): Mrs Helen Oakes. Supervisor(s): Dr Marlize DeVivo, Dr Hayley Mills, Professor David Stephensen. [Postgraduate Research Project]
  • Educational campaign to support pregnant women and new mothers in enjoying and benefiting from an active lifestyle. Insight report.. Researcher(s): Dr Marlize DeVivo. [Project report]
  • Evaluating Mums’ Zone: a combined intervention of physical activity and social support for new mums.. Researcher(s): Dr Marlize DeVivo, Dr Hayley Mills. [Project report]
  • Physical activity advice and guidance offered during fertility treatment. Researcher(s): Miss STACEY DRAPER. Supervisor(s): Dr Marlize DeVivo, Dr Abby Foad, Dr Hayley Mills. [Postgraduate Research Project]
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Contact me

marlize.devivo@canterbury.ac.uk
01227921939