Dr. Stacy T. Sims

Dr. Stacy T. Sims, MSc, PhD, is an exercise physiologist and nutrition scientist specializing in women's physiology in sport and health. Sims earned a Bachelor of Science in exercise physiology and metabolism from Purdue University, a Master of Science in exercise physiology and metabolism from Springfield College, and a doctorate in exercise physiology and nutrition science from the University of Otago in New Zealand. A former bike racer and triathlete, Sims has held academic positions at Stanford University and Auckland University of Technology, where she writes and speaks on exercise and fitness practices for women.

Sims is known for challenging the lack of research focused on female athletes in sports science. Her work addresses the gap in exercise nutrition and performance research for women, emphasizing how estrogen influences metabolism, recovery, and endurance. She has directed research programs at Stanford University, the University of Waikato, and Auckland University of Technology, where she serves as a senior research associate at the Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand. Sims has published more than 100 peer-reviewed papers and several books, and is a frequent speaker at professional and academic conferences, including those by USOC and USA Cycling.

At Stanford, Sims translated her research into accessible resources for the public, including consumer products and the book "ROAR," which explains sex differences in training and nutrition across the lifespan. Her follow-up book, "Next Level: Your Guide to Kicking Ass, Feeling Great, and Crushing Goals Through Menopause and Beyond," became a USA Today bestseller. Her "Women Are Not Small Men" TEDx talk also addresses the need for sex-specific approaches in exercise and nutrition.

In addition to her academic and literary work, Sims has contributed to coaching, consulting, and digital education. She has served as a consultant for brands such as Nike, WHOOP, and Tonal, and has collaborated with sports organizations including USA Cycling, World Tour Teams, and Olympic programs to develop performance strategies for women. Sims supervises doctoral students, writes academic papers, and serves on advisory boards for companies including Tonal Strength Institute, WILD.AI, and EXOS. She also develops online learning materials focused on women training with their physiology throughout the lifespan.

Sims' contributions to sports nutrition and exercise physiology have established a new niche in the industry, focusing on sex differences in training, nutrition, and health. Her work informs elite athletes, medical professionals, and active women, providing evidence-based guidance in women's health and performance.