Matthew Kolasinski is a Lecturer and PhD Candidate at the University of Newcastle, where he combines academic excellence with practical healthcare expertise to advance fall prevention research. His current PhD project, “Balancing Act: Early Screening to Prevent Falls in Midlife, a Future-Proof Approach,” investigates innovative exercise interventions designed to enhance strength, balance, and cognitive function in middle-aged adults as a ‘future-proof’ approach.
With a strong clinical background as an Exercise Physiologist with NSW Health, Matthew specialised in delivering falls prevention and cardiopulmonary rehabilitation programs across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens, and the Hunter regions, providing crucial real-world insight that informs his research approach.
Matthew’s research methodology combines systematic reviews of randomised controlled trials, evaluation of current clinical practices, and pilot testing of novel interventions, including muscle strengthening, traditional balance training, and dual-task balance training. His work addresses a critical gap in healthcare by focusing on early intervention strategies that receive less attention than acute care, despite the potential for significant long-term impact and healthcare cost savings.
As an educator, Matthew is involved in the Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science and Master of Exercise Physiology programs and has significantly expanded practical placement opportunities for postgraduate students, leading to numerous successful employment outcomes.