Weiyun Chen, PhD

Dr. Weiyun Chen is associate professor of Applied Exercise Science and director of the Physical Activity and Health Laboratory at the University of Michigan School of Kinesiology.

Dr. Chen’s research focuses on developing, implementing, and evaluating technology-enhanced physical activity interventions to promote physical activity behaviors, cognition, mental health, and psychological well-being across the lifespan. As a principal investigator (PI), Dr. Chen has secured over $1.45 million in extramural funding from sources such as U.S. Department of Education, and the Michigan Health Endowment Fund. Dr. Chen and her research team have conducted research studies, including:

• Investigating the effects of school-based physical activity interventions on improving students’ motor skill competency, physical fitness, physical activity behaviors, and mental well-being.
• Examining the impact of different types of physical activities on improving the cardiometabolic health, physical fitness, mental health and psychological well-being in college students and mid-aged adults.
• Assessing the effectiveness of technology-enhanced physical activity interventions in promoting cognitive functions, functional fitness, and psychological well-being in older adults.

Dr. Chen has conducted over 110 research presentations at international and national conferences, delivered 60 invited presentation and keynote speaking both nationally and internationally, and lead 37 teacher training workshops. She has authored one book, three book chapters, and 100 peer-reviewed research articles in journals such as BMC Geriatrics, BMC Public Health, Journal of Affective Disorders, Journal of American College Health, and Journal of Sports and Health Science.

Dr. Chen is currently past president for ICSPAH. She served a three-year term as chair of AERA SIG and AAHPERD NASPE C & I Academy. She also chaired the AERA SIG Scholar Lecture Committee, AAHPERD Research Writing Award Committee, and AAHPERD Pedagogy Panel Review Committee. Dr. Chen served as associate editor for the Journal of Teaching in Physical Education (2016-2018) and is currently associate editor for Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport (since 2013).

Dr. Chen is a Fellow in SHAPE America, as well as a member of the U-M Momentum Center for Driving Discovery to End Child Obesity and of Precision Health at U-M.

Dr. Chen is guest editor of an upcoming special issue of Healthcare: "Exercise Science and Health Promotion." Submission deadline is May 20, 2026. Details.