OPTIMIX: Optimizing Performance and Health While Respecting the Ecology of Action Through Mixed Methods
This action-research project responds to field-based needs aimed at improving performance, health, and safety in sporting, industrial, and organizational environments. It places particular emphasis on motor activity and ergonomic analysis of work. More specifically, it focuses on supporting athletes and para-athletes with the goal of optimizing performance, in partnership with structures such as the Bourges Center for Expertise and Athletic Performance (CREPS) and other collaborations with sports, Olympic, and Paralympic federations. The methodology relies on triangulating approaches aimed at achieving sustainable performance.
Two main areas are combined:
- Mental preparation, grounded in psychological theories of sport (self-determination theory, achievement theory).
- Activity ergonomics, based on the paradigm of situated action and the course-of-action theory. This second approach uses specific tools such as self-confrontation or elicitation interviews to reveal the invisible dimensions of activity. All projects are conducted in ecological, real-world contexts, aligned with concrete requests from clubs, training centers, federations, or public and private institutions.
The overall objective is to understand and improve human performance, health (prevention of psychosocial and musculoskeletal risks), and safety in real-world, high-stakes environments. Mixed methodological approaches (quantitative and qualitative) are used to shed light on these complex dimensions.
Contact: Sandrine Schiano-Lomoriello (sandrine.schiano-lomoriello@univ-orleans.fr)