Janet Dufek

Professor, School of Integrated Health Sciences
Expertise: Biomechanics, Ergonomics/Human Factors, Exercise Equipment Evaluation

Biography

Janet Dufek is a biomechanist and founding advisory board member of the REBEL (Rehabilitation, Exercise Science, Biomechanics, Engineering and Life Sciences) Research Group. Her research focuses on lower extremity function with an eye toward injury prevention. More specifically, Dufek has used a landing model to assess kinematic and kinetic responses to various experimental conditions, but, more so, to examine individual responses to these experimental perturbations. Dufek has also used running and walking protocols to examine similar phenomena. 

She regularly collaborates with colleagues in Physical Therapy, Engineering and Nursing to address questions of clinical concern. She has worked with pediatric populations with cerebral palsy and autism, and adult populations with diabetes. 

Dufek currently serves as a professor within the Department of Kinesiology and Nutrition Sciences. Dufek has also served as the school's associate dean, and a graduate coordinator for the doctorate programs in kinesiology and interdisciplinary health sciences. She holds associate graduate faculty status in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ and is an adjunct professor in 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ’s Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine and at the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

Education

  • Ph.D., Biomechanics, Integrated Exercise Science; University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon, 1988
  • M.S., Scientific Foundations of Kinesiology; Illinois State University, Normal, Illinois, 1982
  • B.S., Physical Education, University of Wisconsin-Superior, Superior, Wisconsin, 1981

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Janet Dufek In The News

Runner's World
Walking is one of the simplest and most accessible physical activities, but what happens when the movement is reversed? Backward walking, or retro walking, is a practice that is establishing itself in the world of fitness thanks to its unique benefits. Although it may seem like a modern trend, this technique has ancient origins: it was in fact used in Chinese medicine to improve body balance.
Elle Magazine
Physiotherapist reveals benefits of walking backwards
Country & Town House
Move over Hot Girl Walk: in 2024 the trendiest way to stroll is backwards, according to TikTok. Backwards walking is all over the platform right now, and unlike some other wellness trends as of late (oatzempic, we’re looking at you), this one actually has legs. We all know walking is good for us, boosting cardiovascular fitness and improving bone health. But it turns out just by switching direction, you’ll reap a whole host of other health benefits – provided you’re happy to accept a few strange looks from your neighbours.
CBC
Janet Nevala has walked for exercise her whole life, but about 10 years ago she added a new element to her jaunts — walking backwards. "Every time I walk, I just do a little twirl and walk backwards for a bit, and I'll do it just a few times during my walk," said the 62-year-old nurse, who lives in Notre-Dame-du-Portage, Que.

Articles Featuring Janet Dufek

The Las Vegas skyline (Josh Hawkins, 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ).
Campus News | December 4, 2023

A collection of news stories highlighting 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ’s dedication to community and research.