Connie Tompkins, Ph.D., ACSM-EP
Associate Professor of Exercise Science
Undergraduate Program Director of Exercise Science
Secondary appointment: Associate Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at The Robert Larner, MD College of Medicine
- Postdoctoral Researcher, Endocrinology, Tulane University School of Medicine
- Ph.D., Exercise Physiology and Curriculum & Instruction, University of New Orleans
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Area(s) of expertise
- Behavioral and lifestyle modification for weight management and metabolic health, with a focus on obesity prevention and treatment
- Influence of physical activity for longevity and the prevention- and treatment of chronic diseases
BIO
Connie Tompkins’ research focuses on the prevention and treatment of obesity through the modification of weight-related behaviors. She has extensive experience studying changes in body composition, the physiological responses to exercise prior to- and following weight loss, and the metabolic effects of obesity. Dr. Tompkins serves as a co-Investigator leading the assessment of physical activity for Kiddie Children and Teachers on the Move (Kiddie CATs), an interdisciplinary project funded by the Vermont Children’s Health Improvement Program (VCHIP). Partnering with pediatric cardiologists at UVMMC, she is also working with the newly established Pediatric Fitness Club, a cardiopulmonary exercise testing and training program for children with cardiac conditions.
Other current projects include studying the effectiveness of physical activity, diet, and drug interventions on blood pressure in hypertensive adults, physical activity trends in college students, impact of anti-obesity (i.e., GLP-1 receptor agonists) on body composition and metabolism, and lifestyle characteristics related to longevity.
Courses
- EXSC 2200 Evidence-Based Practice in Exercise Science
- EXSC 3640 Certified Exercise Physiologist
- EXSC 6680 Physical Activity Program Design and Management
- HLTH 2760 Greece: Health, culture, and sustainability in the Mediterranean
Publications
Bio
Connie Tompkins’ research focuses on the prevention and treatment of obesity through the modification of weight-related behaviors. She has extensive experience studying changes in body composition, the physiological responses to exercise prior to- and following weight loss, and the metabolic effects of obesity. Dr. Tompkins serves as a co-Investigator leading the assessment of physical activity for Kiddie Children and Teachers on the Move (Kiddie CATs), an interdisciplinary project funded by the Vermont Children’s Health Improvement Program (VCHIP). Partnering with pediatric cardiologists at UVMMC, she is also working with the newly established Pediatric Fitness Club, a cardiopulmonary exercise testing and training program for children with cardiac conditions.
Other current projects include studying the effectiveness of physical activity, diet, and drug interventions on blood pressure in hypertensive adults, physical activity trends in college students, impact of anti-obesity (i.e., GLP-1 receptor agonists) on body composition and metabolism, and lifestyle characteristics related to longevity.
Courses
- EXSC 2200 Evidence-Based Practice in Exercise Science
- EXSC 3640 Certified Exercise Physiologist
- EXSC 6680 Physical Activity Program Design and Management
- HLTH 2760 Greece: Health, culture, and sustainability in the Mediterranean
Publications
Professional Associations
- American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)
- National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)