Lisa Ann Barella
Expertise
Exercise psychology, older adults, cognitive function, celiac disease, physical activity, exercise adherence, quality of life, wellness coaching, endurance running, personal training
College
College of Science
Biography
Lisa Barella is an Assistant Professor of Exercise and Sport Science in the Department of Kinesiology, Recreation, and Sport Studies. She teaches Introduction to Exercise & Sport Science, Sport & Exercise Behavior and Fitness Leadership courses.
Barella earned a bachelor's degree in business administration from Susquehanna University, an MBA from Villanova University, and Ph.D. in Sport and Exercise Psychology from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.
Her research interests include investigating how exercise influences quality of life, cognitive function, and psychological outcomes in older adults and chronic disease populations, and researching the relationship between wellness coaching and physical activity. In her last position, as the fitness and program director at Saint Mary’s Center for Health and Fitness, Barella was responsible for creating wellness programs for Saint Mary’s employees and fitness center members, developing and implementing medically integrated exercise programs, and overseeing all operations and personnel in the fitness department.
Barella also practices wellness coaching, as a way to assist others in reaching their health goals. As a Wellcoaches® Certified Wellness Coach, she actively consults and guide clients through health and wellness related concerns. Barella works professionally with clients and coaches them on nutrition, physical activity, stress reduction and chronic disease management.
Her hobbies include teaching group exercise classes at the YMCA, running, masters swimming, wine tasting and listening to live music.
Contact Information
Phone: 843-349-4184
Email: lbarella@coastal.edu
