Sport Research Development Division

Bhutan Olympic Committee

Sport Research Development Division

To enhance the performance, health, and well-being of Bhutanese athletes by integrating sports science in their training.

Quick Info:

Division Name: Sports Science Initiative
Contact Information: 
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +975 17327586
Office Location: Thimphu, Bhutan

Head / Coordinator:

  • Mr. Tshering Penjor, Sports Science Coordinator, Bhutan Olympic Committee
  • Mr. Sonam Sonam, Head of Sports Science Team, Bhutan Olympic Committee

Objectives :

Training & Performance Optimization: Develop and implement integrated training programs that combine nutrition, psychology, biomechanics, and physiology to optimize athlete performance, enhance recovery, and minimize injury risks.

Research Culture & Learning: Foster a culture of research and continuous learning within Bhutan’s sports community, particularly among coaches, to encourage evidence-based practices and promote the application of the latest sports science knowledge.

Talent Identification: Use science-based methods and tools to identify and assess emerging athletic talent, ensuring targeted development to reach their full potential in competitive sports.

Success Stories

This Team has designed a selection process for the BEAST Program known as Bhutan Athlete Selection Evaluation(BASE).

The Team is also working with the 6 sports under BEAST Program to develop and monitor athletes through proper periodized Training Plan.

The Sports Science Team’s responsibilities directly contribute to the overall mission of the Bhutan Olympic Committee (BOC) by enhancing athletic performance, promoting long-term athlete health, and building a sustainable and competitive sports culture in Bhutan.

Key Responsibilities :

Conduct Research: Lead and support research initiatives focused on Bhutanese athletes.

Develop Training Plans: Collaborate with coaches to design and implement evidence-based, customized training plans that integrate sports science principles for optimal athlete development.

Talent Identification Framework: Develop a science-based framework for talent identification for different sports. Inclusive of Age bracket, types of sport, types of athletes.

Injury Prevention & Rehabilitation: Implement science-driven injury prevention protocols and provide effective rehabilitation strategies.

Monitor Athlete Health & Performance: Regularly assess athletes’ physical and mental health, using data to inform training adjustments, recovery protocols, and performance strategies.

Support Sports Psychology: Integrate psychological techniques to help athletes improve mental toughness, focus, and emotional resilience.

Provide Nutritional Guidance: Help develop and monitor personalized nutrition plans to support athletes’ energy needs, recovery, and long-term health goals.

Educate & Train Coaches: Conduct workshops and training sessions for coaches and sports professionals on the application of sports science in training, injury prevention, and performance enhancement.

Promote a Research & Learning Culture: Encourage a culture of continuous learning and research within the sports community, empowering coaches and athletes to adopt evidence-based practices in their training and competition.

Initiatives and Programs :

Project Dechenchholing, July – October, 2024

3 months-long study on Athletics intervention’s impact on Students health and fitness in Dechenchholing Higher Secondary School.

Achievements/Impact: Collected health and fitness data on approx. 1300 students and improved both physical and mental well-being of students through athletics program.

Sports Science Course, January – May, 2024

 4 months-long course on basic sports science for national team coaches from various sports. It included theoretical as well as practical sessions with RBA Athletes for the participants.

Achievements/Impact: 12 coaches out of 18 have completed the course successfully and formed the first ever sports science team. The 18 coaches as part of the practical course conducted research on health and fitness of students during the Olympic Day Celebration in Phuntsholing.

About Bhutan Olympic Committee

Discover the history of the Bhutan Olympic Committee and learn about its journey and contributions to sports development.