The Fuse Physical Activity Network workshops aim to build research capacity in physical activity related public health research for those working in policy, practice and academia by sharing knowledge, providing networking opportunities, and stimulating debate across sector boundaries.

The workshops were modelled on the successful Fuse Quarterly Research Meeting (QRM) template and are collaboratively organised by academic and local authority colleagues on topics relevant to public health practice. Previous workshops have covered: active travel, measurement of physical activity, school-based physical activity, obesity, ageing, inequalities, physical activity in pregnancy and early years, and prevention and management of longterm conditions.

Each workshop typically attracts around 80 delegates, and features nationally and internationally renowned speakers from academia, policy and practice. Academics have been hosted from universities across the UK and overseas, as well as speakers from local authorities, NHS trusts, community and voluntary organisations. Speakers have disseminated a range of innovative research findings and local initiatives. In addition, the workshops have provided an opportunity for early career researchers to develop their presentation skills and network with leaders in their field of expertise.

Important workshop outcomes have included research collaborations, PhD supervisions and revisions of local authority commissioning briefs. The members are now developing a research agenda for the next five years based on focus group discussions held at a 10th anniversary event.