Dr Dave Smith

Academic and professional qualifications

BSc(Hons), FHEA, CPsychol, AFBPsS, PhD

HCPC Registered Sport and Exercise Psychologist

Previous employment

2000-2007 Lecturer in Sport Psychology at the University of Chester

Other academic service (administration and management)

Departmental Research Degrees Co-Ordinator

Deputy Chair of the Exercise and Sport Science Ethics Committee

Why study Sport and exercise psychology?

Sport and exercise psychology is a very rewarding subject to study for anyone, like me, who loves sport and exercise and is also fascinated by what makes people 'tick'! Studying this topic will help students understand how and why people think and behave the way they do in sport and exercise contexts. 

Undergraduate courses

BSc(Hons) Exercise and Sport Science 

BSc(Hons) Sport Science - Distance Learning

Postgraduate teaching

MSc Exercise and Sport - Psychology (BPS accredited)

Postgraduate supervision (completed/in progress)

I have supervised 5 PhDs and 1 MPhil to completion, and am currently supervising a Masters by Research project.

External examiner roles

External Examiner of the BSc(Hons) Sport and Exercise Science degree at Sheffield Hallam University

Research expertise

Dr Smith is a Chartered Psychologist and Asociate Fellow of the British Psychological Society registered with the Health and Care Professions Council. Research interests include the use of psychological skills (particularly imagery) in sport and exercise, and the application of this knowledge to other areas including stroke and other long-term conditions, and nursing. He also researches psychological issues in bodybuilding and strength training, including exercise dependence, muscle dysmorphia and steroid use, and effects of low back pain therapies. See his ResearchGate profile for a full list of publications, at:

https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Dave_Smith20?ev=hdr_xprf&_sg=OkEpL0qyGXVzhUr-YG2qPthKyj63i4HlgkWkIawPURbX0pESf1tmLZGXcGy1MoJF

Academic collaborations

Current and past collaborations include projects with Pennsylvania State University, Central Michigan University, Texas Christian University, Lakehead University, Southampton Solent University, Liverpool Hope University and the University of Chester. 

Publications

• Featured Works

  J. Steele, P. Androulakis-Korakakis, L. Carlson, D. Williams, S. Phillips, et al. D. Smith, BJ. Schoenfeld, JP. Loenneke, R. Winett, T. Abe, S. Dufour, MV. Franchi, F. Sarto, TR. Lundberg, P. Gentil, T. Kvorning, J. Giessing, M. Sedliak, A. Paoli, F. Spotswood, A. Lucas, JP. Fisher. (2021). The Impact of Coronavirus (COVID-19) Related Public-Health Measures on Training Behaviours of Individuals Previously Participating in Resistance Training: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study. Sports Medicine. 51(7), pp.1561-1580.

  DN. O'Dowd, EL. Bostock, D. Smith, CI. Morse, P. Orme, et al. CJ. Payton. (2021). Psychological parameters impact health-related quality of life in mental and physical domains in adults with muscular dystrophy. Neuromuscular Disorders. 31(4), pp.328-335.

  J. Steele, S. Bruce-Low, D. Smith, D. Jessop, N. Osborne (2020). Isolated Lumbar Extension Resistance Training Improves Strength, Pain, and Disability, but Not Spinal Height or Shrinkage (“Creep”) in Participants with Chronic Low Back Pain. Cartilage. 11(2), pp.160-168.

  J. Steele, J. Fisher, C. Perrin, R. Conway, S. Bruce-Low, et al. D. Smith. (2019). Does change in isolated lumbar extensor muscle function correlate with good clinical outcome? A secondary analysis of data on change in isolated lumbar extension strength, pain, and disability in chronic low back pain. Disability and Rehabilitation. 41(11), pp.1287-1295.

  J. Fisher, J. Steele, D. Smith (2017). High- and Low-Load Resistance Training: Interpretation and Practical Application of Current Research Findings. Sports Medicine. 47, pp.393-400.

• Journal articles

  J. Steele, P. Androulakis-Korakakis, L. Carlson, D. Williams, S. Phillips, et al. D. Smith, BJ. Schoenfeld, JP. Loenneke, R. Winett, T. Abe, S. Dufour, MV. Franchi, F. Sarto, TR. Lundberg, P. Gentil, T. Kvorning, J. Giessing, M. Sedliak, A. Paoli, F. Spotswood, A. Lucas, JP. Fisher. (2021). The Impact of Coronavirus (COVID-19) Related Public-Health Measures on Training Behaviours of Individuals Previously Participating in Resistance Training: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study. Sports Medicine. 51(7), pp.1561-1580.

  DN. O'Dowd, EL. Bostock, D. Smith, CI. Morse, P. Orme, et al. CJ. Payton. (2021). Psychological parameters impact health-related quality of life in mental and physical domains in adults with muscular dystrophy. Neuromuscular Disorders. 31(4), pp.328-335.

  D. Smith, S. Romano-Smith, DJ. Wright, B. Deller-Rust, CJ. Wakefield (2020). The Effects of Combining PETTLEP Imagery and Action Observation on Bicep Strength: A Single-Case Design. Journal of Applied Sport Psychology. 32(4), pp.377-391.

  J. Steele, S. Bruce-Low, D. Smith, D. Jessop, N. Osborne (2020). Isolated Lumbar Extension Resistance Training Improves Strength, Pain, and Disability, but Not Spinal Height or Shrinkage (“Creep”) in Participants with Chronic Low Back Pain. Cartilage. 11(2), pp.160-168.

  J. Steele, J. Fisher, C. Perrin, R. Conway, S. Bruce-Low, et al. D. Smith. (2019). Does change in isolated lumbar extensor muscle function correlate with good clinical outcome? A secondary analysis of data on change in isolated lumbar extension strength, pain, and disability in chronic low back pain. Disability and Rehabilitation. 41(11), pp.1287-1295.

  J. Steele, J. Fisher, S. Bruce-Low, D. Smith, N. Osborne, et al. D. Newell. (2017). Variability in Strength, Pain, and Disability Changes in Response to an Isolated Lumbar Extension Resistance Training Intervention in Participants with Chronic Low Back Pain. Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland). 5(4),

  J. Steele, J. Fisher, M. Skivington, C. Dunn, J. Arnold, et al. G. Tew, AM. Batterham, D. Nunan, JM. O Driscoll, S. Mann, C. Beedie, S. Jobson, D. Smith, A. Vigotsky, S. Phillips, P. Estabrooks, R. Winett. (2017). A higher effort-based paradigm in physical activity and exercise for public health: making the case for a greater emphasis on resistance training. BMC Public Health. 17,

  D. Smith (2017). Mr America: the tragic story of a bodybuilding icon. Sport in History. 37(2), pp.223-224.

  J. Fisher, J. Steele, D. Smith (2017). High- and Low-Load Resistance Training: Interpretation and Practical Application of Current Research Findings. Sports Medicine. 47, pp.393-400.

  J. Steele, S. Bruce-Low, D. Smith (2015). A review of the clinical value of isolated lumbar extension resistance training for chronic low back pain. PM R. 7(2), pp.169-187.

  J. Steele, S. Bruce-Low, D. Smith (2013). Letter to the editor. Spine. 38(18), pp.1609-1610.

  J. Steele, S. Bruce-Low, D. Smith (2013). Re: Willemink MJ, van Es HW, Helmhout PH, et al. The effects of dynamic isolated lumbar extensor training on lumbar multifidus functional cross-sectional area and functional status of patients with chronic non specific low back pain. Spine 2012;37: E1651–8. Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 38(18), pp.1609-1610.

  J. Steele, S. Bruce-Low, D. Smith, D. Jessop, N. Osborne (2013). A randomized controlled trial of limited range of motion lumbar extension exercise in chronic low back pain. Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 38(15), pp.1245-1252.

  C. Wakefield, D. Smith, AP. Moran, P. Holmes (2013). Functional equivalence or behavioural matching? A critical reflection on 15 years of research using the PETTLEP model of motor imagery. International Review of Sport and Exercise Psychology. 6(1), pp.105-121.

  J. Steele, S. Bruce-Low, D. Smith (2013). A review of the specificity of exercises designed for conditioning the lumbar extensors. British Journal of Sports Medicine.

  D. Smith, C. Wakefield (2013). A timely review of a key aspect of motor imagery: a commentary on Guillot et al. (2012). Front Hum Neurosci. 7,

  BD. Hale, D. Smith (2012). Bodybuilding. 1, pp.66-73.

  CS. Wilson, D. Smith, R. Stockley, PS. Holmes (2012). Do physiotherapists and occupational therapists use cognitive therapies during stroke rehabilitation?. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF STROKE. 7, pp.64-65.

  J. Fisher, D. Smith (2012). Attempting to better define intensity for muscular performance: Is it all wasted effort. European Journal of Applied Physiology. 112(12), pp.4183-4185.

  J. Steele, J. Fisher, D. McGuff, S. Bruce-Low, D. Smith (2012). Resistance training to momentary muscular failure improves cardiovascular fitness in humans: A review of acute physiological responses and chronic physiological Adaptations. Journal of Exercise Physiology Online. 15(3), pp.53-80.

  DJ. Wright, PS. Holmes, F. Di Russo, M. Loporto, D. Smith (2012). Differences in cortical activity related to motor planning between experienced guitarists and non-musicians during guitar playing. Hum Mov Sci. 31(3), pp.567-577.

  S. Bruce-Low, D. Smith, S. Burnet, J. Fisher, G. Bissell, et al. L. Webster. (2012). One lumbar extension training session per week is sufficient for strength gains and reductions in pain in patients with chronic low back pain ergonomics. Ergonomics. 55(4), pp.500-507.

  C. Wakefield, D. Smith (2012). Perfecting Practice: Applying the PETTLEP Model of Motor Imagery. Journal of Sport Psychology in Action. 3(1), pp.1-11.

  DJ. Wright, P. Holmes, F. Di Russo, M. Loporto, D. Smith (2012). Reduced motor cortex activity during movement preparation following a period of motor skill practice. PLoS One. 7(12),

  D. Smith, CJ. Wakefield, DJ. Wright (2012). Morris and Spittle’s intriguing hypothesis on imagery perspectives and Lang’s bioinformational theory. Journal of Mental Imagery. 36, pp.79-85.

  J. Fisher, S. Bruce-Low, D. Smith (2012). A randomized trial to consider the effect of Romanian deadlift exercise on the development of lumbar extension strength. Physical Therapy in Sport.

  J. Fisher, J. Steele, S. Bruce-Low, D. Smith (2011). Evidence-Based Resistance Training Recommendations. Medicina Sportiva. 15(3), pp.147-162.

  D. Smith, G. Bissell, S. Bruce-Low, C. Wakefield (2011). The effect of lumbar extension training with and without pelvic stabilization on lumbar strength and low back pain. J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil. 24(4), pp.241-249.

  DJ. Wright, PS. Holmes, D. Smith (2011). Using the movement-related cortical potential to study motor skill learning. J Mot Behav. 43(3), pp.193-201.

  C. Wakefield, D. Smith (2011). From strength to strength: A single-case design study of PETTLEP imagery frequency. Sport Psychologist. 25(3), pp.305-320.

  C. Wilson, D. Smith, A. Burden, P. Holmes (2010). Participant‐generated imagery scripts produce greater EMG activity and imagery ability. European Journal of Sport Science. 10(6), pp.417-425.

  D. Smith, K. Kilty (2010). Exercise Psychology: From Theory to Practice. International Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology. 8(1), pp.7-9.

  D. Smith, C. Wright, D. Winrow (2010). Exercise dependence and social physique anxiety in competitive and non-competitive runners. International Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology. 8(1), pp.61-69.

  CJ. Wakefield, D. Smith (2009). Impact of differing frequencies of PETTLEP imagery on netball shooting performance. Journal of Imagery Research in Sport and Physical Activity. 4(1),

  D. Smith, B. Hale, D. Rhea, T. Olrich, K. Collier (2009). Big, buff and dependent: Exercise dependence, muscle dysmorphia and anabolic steroid use in bodybuilders. pp.1-36.

  CJ. Wright, D. Smith (2009). The effect of PETTLEP imagery on strength performance. International Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology. 7(1), pp.18-31.

  D. Smith, CJ. Wright, C. Cantwell (2008). Beating the bunker: the effect of PETTLEP imagery on golf bunker shot performance. Res Q Exerc Sport. 79(3), pp.385-391.

  C. Wright, E. Hogard, R. Ellis, D. Smith, C. Kelly (2008). Effect of PETTLEP imagery training on performance of nursing skills: pilot study. Journal of Advanced Nursing. 63(3), pp.259-265.

  D. Smith, C. Wright, A. Allsopp, H. Westhead (2007). It's All in the Mind: PETTLEP-Based Imagery and Sports Performance. Journal of Applied Sport Psychology. 19(1), pp.80-92.

  S. Bruce-Low, D. Smith (2007). Explosive exercises in sports training: A critical review. Journal of Exercise Physiology Online. 10(1), pp.21-33.

  D. Smith, C. Wright, S. Bruce-Low, B. Hale (2005). "Read with caution": a reply to Pickett et al. Br J Sports Med. 39(11), pp.874-875.

  D. Smith, B. Hale (2005). Exercise-dependence in bodybuilders: antecedents and reliability of measurement. J Sports Med Phys Fitness. 45(3), pp.401-408.

  D. Smith (2005). Psychology and Bodybuilding. pp.617-639.

  D. Smith, S. Bruce-Low (2004). Strength training methods and the work of Arthur Jones. Journal of Exercise Physiology Online. 7(6), pp.52-68.

  D. Smith, D. Collins (2004). Mental Practice, Motor Performance, and the Late CNV. Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology. 26(3), pp.412-426.

  D. Smith, B. Hale (2004). Validity and factor structure of the bodybuilding dependence scale. Br J Sports Med. 38(2), pp.177-181.

  D. Smith, P. Holmes (2004). The effect of imagery modality on golf putting performance. Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology. 26(3), pp.385-395.

  B. Hale, P. Holmes, D. Smith, N. Fowler, D. Collins (2003). Give those men a cigar (but no light): A reply to Slade, Landers, and Martin. JOURNAL OF SPORT & EXERCISE PSYCHOLOGY. 25(3), pp.402-409.

  D. Smith, S. Driver, M. Lafferty, C. Burrell, T. Devonport (2002). Social desirability bias and direction modified Competitive State Anxiety Inventory-2. Percept Mot Skills. 95(3 Pt 1), pp.945-952.

  R. Hurst, B. Hale, D. Smith, D. Collins (2000). Exercise dependence, social physique anxiety, and social support in experienced and inexperienced bodybuilders and weightlifters. Br J Sports Med. 34(6), pp.431-435.

  DK. Smith, BD. Hale, D. Collins (1998). Measurement of exercise dependence in bodybuilders. Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness. 38(1), pp.66-74.

  D. Smith, D. Collins, B. Hale (1998). Imagery perspectives and karate performance. Journal of Sports Sciences. 16(1), pp.103-104.

• Chapters in books

  D. Smith, B. Hale, D. Rhea, T. Olrich, K. Collier (2020). BIG, BUFF AND DEPENDENT: EXERCISE DEPENDENCE, MUSCLE DYSMORPHIA AND ANABOLIC STEROID USE IN BODYBUILDERS^*. In: Encyclopedia of Substance Abuse. Nova Science, pp.191-228.

  D. Smith, C. Wakefield (2015). Sport and Exercise Psychology. A. Lane. In: Sport and Exercise Psychology: Topics in Applied Psychology: Second Edition. Routledge, pp.232-249.

  D. Smith, BD. Hale (2013). EXERCISE DEPENDENCE. In: The Psychology of Strength and Conditioning. Routledge, pp.126-147.

  D. Smith, B. Hale (2012). Bodybuilding. In: Encyclopedia of Body Image and Human Appearance.

  D. Smith, C. Wright, N. Ross, S. Warmington (2006). Sports advertising and body image. In: Body Image New Research. Nova Publishers,

  D. Smith (2005). Psychology and bodybuilding. In: Sport psychology: improving performance in different sports. John Wiley and Sons,

• Conferences

  D. O'Dowd, C. Morse, E. Bostock, D. Smith, C. Payton (2018). Is resistance training feasible and beneficial for adults living with muscular dystrophy?. Harrogate, 27/11/2018.

  D. O'Dowd, C. Morse, E. Bostock, D. Smith, C. Payton (2018). Is progressive resistance training an effective intervention in adults with muscular dystrophy?. In: Gait and Posture. pp.166-167.

Editorial board membership

Associate Editor, The Sport Psychologist

Guest Editor of special issue of the International Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology on exercise psychology

Membership of professional associations

Associate Fellow of the British Psychological Society

Registered Sport and Exercise Psychologist with the Health Care and Professions Council