Donation of Fitbits Inspires Insightful Student Research

Exercise Science major Bray Ilori had a productive spring semester, which included presenting her research outcome at the Greater New York Regional Chapter of the American College of Sports Medicine (GNYRC-ACSM).

Ms. Ilori's scholarly exploration, a unique blend of technology and health science, was made possible, in part, by the use of Fitbit technology. Under the mentorship of Dr. Galila Werber-Zion, Associate Professor and program director of Exercise Science, the York College senior presented her abstract titled "Fitbit-Measured Activity, Self-Efficacy, and Psychological Health in Diverse Urban Exercise Science College Students."

Asked why she chose this research topic, Ilori explained that her inspiration stemmed from a donation of health-monitoring tools that the department received from York's Interim Associate Provost Maureen Becker.

"Our program received a donation of Fitbits and blood pressure cuffs," Ilori said. "We used the Fitbits to measure whether students in our program met the recommended MET-min requirements of the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). We then analyzed correlations between their psychological factors and their physical activity (PA). Understanding why we should exercise and increase PA is crucial -- it benefits our overall health, both psychologically and physically."

Initially, Ilori had planned to pursue a career in physical therapy, a graduate program for which the Exercise Science program prepares students. However, after completing an athletic training internship, her interests shifted. "I realized I'd like to explore other ways to use my degree, particularly in rehabilitation and conditioning," she said.

Ilori believes her research offers a small but meaningful insight into the physical activity levels of health provider students at York, a diverse urban college. "Our Exercise Science student numbers weren't the best," she noted, "but that's part of the story. The study demonstrates how low physical activity and exercise levels can have a negative impact on psychological health. Students with limited PA reported higher levels of anxiety and fatigue. Hopefully, this research will help future generations understand that exercise impacts not only physical health but also mental well-being -- highlighting both extrinsic and intrinsic benefits."

Dr. Werber-Zion is encouraged by Ilori's tenacity. "Our Exercise Science students are not only learning in the classroom—they're also actively engaged in hands-on research, she explained. "Out of 24 abstracts selected from colleges across the Greater New York region—including New York City, Nassau, Rockland, Suffolk, and Westchester Counties, as well as Bergen, Essex, and Hudson—Bray's abstract was proudly among them."

Prof. Werber-Zion added that Ilori's achievement "not only highlights her personal dedication and academic excellence, but it also demonstrates our department's growing commitment to fostering student-led research that addresses real-world health disparities and promotes evidence-based" practice.

"This type of work helps position our department in preparing students for careers in health and wellness professions while adding to the scientific conversation about physical activity and mental health in urban and diverse populations. I am incredibly proud of Bray's success. I hope this achievement inspires future cohorts of Exercise Science students to engage in research that not only enhances their academic growth but also serves the needs of our surrounding communities."