"Bergische Universität is at the heart of Rhine-Ruhr 2025 events"
The **2025 FISU World University Games** (Summer Universiade), set to unfold in Germany's Rhine-Ruhr region from July 16 to 27, promises to be an exciting event for over 9,200 student-athletes from more than 100 countries[3]. The Games, which feature 18 sports, will take centre stage at Duisburg Arena on July 16[1].
While the event's focus is primarily on competition and participation, it also serves as a platform for academic research. Six research projects, including one led by Prof. Dr. Kirsten Legerlotz from Bergische Universität Wuppertal, are being conducted during the Games[2]. Legerlotz's study aims to investigate the influence of menstrual/cycle phase on competitive performance and subjective perceptions of athletes[3].
Athletes are being surveyed at various events, such as track and field events in Bochum, rowing events in Duisburg, and swimming events in Berlin, as part of this research[2]. The study results are intended to provide athletes with better information about the effects of hormones on their performance.
The Games are not just about competition; they also offer a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and community engagement. The Park Festival in Essen from July 21 to 26 will combine sport, culture, and community in the Grugapark[1]. The performance will feature singers from various NRW universities, including 40 singers from the website "UNI Chors". They will be accompanied by the WDR Funkhausorchester and sing the national anthem, Steigerlied, and student anthem Gaudeamus igitur[1].
The singers have two joint rehearsals in Duisburg before the opening show[1]. Christoph Spengler, the choir director, finds the instrumental accompaniment by the Funkhausorchester particularly appealing[1].
The Bergische Universität Wuppertal will be a part of the festival, with 15 students helping with the opening and closing ceremonies, welcoming visitors, accompanying sporting competitions, or reporting as part of the media team[1]. Dennis Kern, a biology and sports student, is one of these volunteers and is excited about the opportunity to gain experiences for his future career[1].
The university will offer various interactive activities, exchange, and getting to know each other in the "Discover" festival zone[1]. This aspect of the Games highlights the importance of community and connection, making the 2025 World University Games more than just a sports event.
For current findings on the effects of the menstrual cycle on female athletes’ performance, consult recent sports science literature and athlete health initiatives outside the event itself[3]. While the official documentation does not indicate any research or reporting by the event organizers on this topic, the opportunity for such research remains, providing a fascinating avenue for future study.
[1] World University Games 2025 official website [2] Bergische Universität Wuppertal press release [3] FISU (International University Sports Federation) official website
Athletes participating in the Education-and-self-development aspect of the 2025 World University Games may find insights from the research being conducted by Professor Kirsten Legerlotz, who investigates the impact of menstrual cycles on competitive performance. During events such as swimming, rowing, and track and field competitions, learning opportunities are available, offering better understanding of hormonal effects on performance. Furthermore, sports like football, though not featured in the Games, can serve as another avenue for studying the influence of hormones on athletic performance.
