David’s research focuses on the psychology of movement, sport, and exercise, with three key areas of investigation:

1. Attention and Motivation in Motor Skill Learning and Execution: This research examines how verbal instructions influence motor skill learning and performance, with a particular focus on attention and motivation. It explores how the content and delivery of instructions impact movement effectiveness and learning outcomes. A key aim of this work is to optimize instructional practices for coaches, teachers, and practitioners involved in skill acquisition and sport performance.

2. Physical Exercise and Cognition: This research investigates the relationship between physical activity and cognitive function, particularly how acute exercise affects cognition and memory. A significant focus is on the effects of exercise performed around learning tasks and its influence on later recall of information. This work seeks to inform educational strategies for integrating movement into learning environments and contributes to understanding the broader cognitive and brain health benefits of physical activity.

3. Psychological Factors in Endurance Activity and Exercise Tolerance: This research explores the cognitive and biopsychosocial mechanisms that shape endurance performance, exercise tolerance, and perceptions of exertion. Additionally, it examines the psychological and behavioural factors that influence the adoption and long-term adherence to endurance exercise. The findings aim to enhance strategies for improving participation, engagement, and overall experiences in endurance-based physical activity.

David’s teaching covers the psychology of sport, exercise, and skill development. He primarily teaches on the BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science and BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Psychology programmes, while also contributing to teaching across the Department of Sport and Physical Activity. He currently leads undergraduate modules in sport and exercise psychology and applied exercise psychology, as well as the postgraduate Research Methods module for the MSc Applied Sport and Exercise Science.

From 2009 to 2021, David initiated and led the development of the BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Psychology programme at Edge Hill University, a collaborative initiative between the Department of Sport and Physical Activity and the Department of Psychology.