Don Hoover

Areas of Expertise

• Interaction between bioenergetics, motor behavior, and biomechanics

HHS Signature Research Area(s)

• Healthy Lifestyles and Vital Longevity

Department of Health and Kinesiology Research Area(s)

• Applied Exercise and Health
• Exercise Physiology

Biography

Don Hoover, PT, PhD, CSCS is a Clinical Associate Professor in HK, and he is part of the faculty group developing a new graduate track in clinical exercise physiology at Purdue. Prior to joining the faculty in West Lafayette, Dr. Hoover has been a faculty member for over 2 decades, most recently as a tenured Professor in the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at Western Michigan University. In addition to his MS degree in physical therapy (University of Kansas), Don also holds BS, MS, and PhD degrees in Kinesiology (Indiana State University, Kansas State, and University of Kansas, respectively).  Don’s research trajectory investigates the role of fatigue upon the interactions between energy substrate utilization, motor behavior, and biomechanics in healthy and clinical populations, and he has authored 100+ peer-reviewed articles and abstracts that address these topics within the areas of human performance and rehabilitation. He has also secured nearly $400K in grant funding to support his scholarship and creative activities. Dr. Hoover is most proud, though, that 80% of his publications have included graduate and undergraduate student co-authors. Don also has served as a university administrator, and he currently serves as an associate editor for 3 professional journals and regularly reviews for other journals.

While he possesses decades of experience conducting research, treating patients, and coaching athletes, Dr. Hoover’s true passion is teaching university students. Don brings to Purdue many years of experience teaching students about the science informing the response and adaptation to physical activity, and he is widely respected for the enthusiasm for learning and approachable style that he brings to every classroom or laboratory setting.

Education

• PhD, 2002 - University of Kansas-Lawrence
• MSPT, 1994 - University of Kansas Medical Center
• MS, 1990 - Kansas State University
• BS, 1987 - Indiana State University
• PT Licenses: KS - 11-02095, IN - 05007967A, MI - 5501019605

Professional Affiliations

• American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)
• National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)
• American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)
• International Society of Biomechanics in Sports (ISBS)