The Work Hardening Laboratory
The Work Hardening Laboratory is primarily operated by the departments of Physical Therapy and
Occupational Therapy, but Exercise and Sport Sciences Students have full access to use the Lab’s
Cybex isokinetic dynamometer for computerized assessment of strength and the Balance Master system for
assessing balance and postural control.
Athletic Training Facilities
A number of our graduate students are NATA certified athletic trainers and get the
opportunity to work with Ithaca College or Cornell University athletes. Some of these athletic trainers
have used these practical training grounds as research facilities, examining topics such as therapeutic
techniques, athletic injury management, and the psychological stages athletes go through in the injury
recovery process.
Sport Psychology Field Training
Our sport psychology students have the opportunity to do basic science research and/or
practical field training with athletes. Many of our students receive graduate assistantships in
coaching, which not only provides collegiate coaching experience, but also gives them the opportunity
to practice their sport psychology training. A number of the sport psychology students also conduct
research; examining such issues as fear of failure, the cognitive and behavioral mindset of elite
performers, psychological factors playing a role in injury recovery, and how personality affects
performance. Our sport psychology students can be found in the labs, on the fields, giving consulting
talks, and anywhere in-between.
