Want to see how science is helping athletes and first responders perform at their best? A new video from East Texas A&M University features Dr. Michael Oldham, assistant professor in the Department of Health and Human Performance, explaining how the university’s ROARHP Lab uses advanced technology to evaluate movement, endurance and overall human performance.

The ROARHP Lab—short for Research Opportunities in Athletics, Recreation, Health and Performance—is a state-of-the-art exercise science facility that supports research, education and community outreach. Faculty and student researchers work with NCAA athletes, first responders, tactical personnel and community members to better understand how the human body performs under a variety of conditions.

Using specialized equipment, the lab offers services including body composition analysis, markerless motion-capture assessments, maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂ max) testing, respiratory capacity evaluations and blood chemistry analysis. These tools help guide training, recovery and injury prevention while providing students with hands-on research experience.

Housed within the Department of Health and Human Performance, the ROARHP Lab continues to expand opportunities for applied research and collaboration while serving clients ranging from student-athletes to local and regional public safety agencies.