Dr. CJ Cleary

From Wakefield, MA, Dr. CJ Cleary earned his undergraduate and master's degrees from the University of New Hampshire under the mentorship of Dr. Summer Cook before completing his PhD in Exercise Physiology from the University of Kansas under Dr. Ashley Herda. An active member of the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), holding the Certified Strength and Conditioning (CSCS) and Certified Performance and Sport Scientist (CPSS) certifications, and completing his dissertation on physiological outcomes after ACL reconstruction, Dr. Cleary is passionate about strength training’s effects on the human body in any situation. In the classroom, Dr. Cleary prioritizes being a pragmatic instructor so that students are extremely well-prepared to excel in their future careers. For research, Dr. Cleary is a self-described “mutt” who is interested in all possible research avenues underneath the umbrella of exercise physiology but predominantly is interested in strength training modalities that can reduce the risk of secondary ACL injuries and improve quality of life after ACL reconstruction. Outside of work, Dr. Cleary enjoys woodworking, learning new DIY skills, Boston sports, college football, and metal concerts.