Martin Skivington

Martin has worked at the Southampton Solent University since 1991, initially as the Fitness Coordinator in the Sport and Recreation Department before progressing to full time lecturing in 1997. He has a degree in Physical Education, Sports Science and Recreation Management from Loughborough University, an MSc in Sport Studies from University College Chichester, as well as a Postgraduate Certificate in Teaching in Higher Education. He is a Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs) Level 4 practitioner in Exercise for the Management of Low Back Pain, a qualified Personal Trainer, an NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, and has recently qualified as a Biomechanics Coach.

Martin is a firm believer that students should be encouraged to gain added-value vocational qualifications and relevant work experience alongside their degree courses to enhance their employability, and where possible he embeds such 'add-on' awards within the degree courses in the Health, Exercise and Sport Science portfolio, especially on the units he teaches to ensure their vocational relevance.

Martin enjoys all sports and used to play semi-pro football for Eastleigh and Bashley, although these days he is more likely to be found enjoying a social game of 5 a-side, training in the gym or trying to encourage his two children to be more active.

Martin is heavily involved in the fitness industry, especially with REPs and SkillsActive, the Sector Skills Council for Active Leisure and Learning who, directed by employers, have responsibility for developing National Occupational Standards for the health and fitness industry. He is a member of the fitness industry Technical Expert Group (TEG); he is Chair of the TEG Endorsement Panel that approves qualifications and training courses within the industry, as well as having had a three year stint on the Fitness Industry Association (FIA) Board of Directors. He has also tutored courses for Premier and YMCA Fitness Industry Training, as well as being an SAQ qualified tutor.

He is an External Examiner for the Open University and Farnborough College of Technology, and he also evaluates fitness courses and qualifications for other industry training providers. He has also developed a number of fitness qualifications for an industry awarding body, as well as undertaking the revalidation of the Health and Fitness courses within the HESS portfolio.