Emma Hsiaowen Chen, MSc
Pronouns: She/Her
- Part-Time, Health, Kinesiology and Applied Physiology
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Sign in to editResearch areas: Dance, Blood Flow Restriction, Aging, Falls, Postural Stability, Tele-health
Contact information
Biography
Emma Hsiaowen Chen (she/elle) is a doctoral candidate in the Department of Health, Kinesiology and Applied Physiology at Concordia University. As a former dancer, she is interested in how dance, combined with blood flow restriction, can be used to improve the balance of older adults and reduce their risk of falls. Alongside her research, Emma is a passionate dance teacher working with older adults and non-for-profit groups across Ontario and Québec. She believes in research extending beyond the lab and being implemented in communities.
Education
PhD candidate in Health and Exercise Science at Concordia University (ongoing)
MSc in Health and Exercise Science at Concordia University, 2023
BSc in Exercise Science and Psychology at Concordia University, 2021
Teaching activities
EXCI 204 - Food for Sport
Research activities
Emma's research explores how online dance classes, combined with blood flow restriction training, can act as an accessible method for improving balance and reducing the risk of falls in older adults. Using her background in exercise science and psychology, she focuses on the physiological, biomechanical and cognitive components of balance, examining how both dance and blood flow restriction can influence these systems.
Alongside her research, she serves on the governing board of engAGE, a research community committed to advancing collaborative research to address the complex needs of an aging population. These ongoing community connections help drive and inspire her research.
Publications
Journal Articles
Chen, E.H., Bergdahl, A. & Roberts, M. (2024). “Improvements in Postural Stability, Dynamic Balance and Strength Following 12 Weeks of Online Ballet-Modern Dance Classes for Older Women” International Journal of Exercise Science. Vol. 17: Iss. 1, Pages 682 - 701. https://digitalcommons.wku.edu/ijes/vol17/iss1/11; PMID: 38863786; PMCID: PMC11166139.
Articles for News Outlets
Chen, E.H. (2026, March 4) La danse permet d’améliorer l’équilibre et de réduire le risque de chutes chez les femmes âgées. The Conversation, Canada https://theconversation.com/la-danse-permet-dameliorer-lequilibre-et-de-reduire-le-risque-de-chutes-chez-les-femmes-agees-271161 Chen, E.H. (2025, November 13). Researchers find simple exercises could reduce the risk of falls for older women. The Independent. https://www.independent.co.uk/news/health/dancing-exercise-health-benefits-online-classes-b2950754.html