Webinar/Podcast
November 28, 2023
Join us for an enlightening webinar in our Careers in Esports series featuring Dr. Matt Hwu, CEO and founder of 1HP.
Dr. Hwu has extensively contributed to the esports community by supporting athletes in optimizing their physical condition for gaming. He is also an Orthopedic Clinical Specialist with a deep-rooted interest in biomechanics and physical health.
Dr. Hwu’s journey is a testament to the diverse career paths within esports. After completing his Physical Therapy education and an Orthopedic Residency, he embarked on a unique path that combined his love for gaming and healthcare, including launching the innovative 1HP - a platform that focuses on providing accessible healthcare to gamers and desk workers.
This is a must-attend for students and educators alike, providing a unique perspective on the expanding realm of esports careers, far beyond the conventional roles of players and coaches!
Join us as we venture into the world of esports health and wellness, focusing on esports physical therapy. As part of our Careers in Esports Webinar Series, Dr. Matthew Hwu and Dr. Caitlin McGee from 1HP will share their insights. Whether you're aiming to enhance your gaming performance or integrate wellness into your gaming club at school, this webinar offers crucial tips to stay healthy and succeed in gaming.
Dr. Matthew Hwu and Dr. Caitlin McGee have paved incredible career paths in esports health. Both started with a passion for gaming and physical therapy, which evolved into a comprehensive approach to wellness in gaming. Dr. Hwu’s initial drive stemmed from his experiences in competitive gaming, where he saw a gap in health support for gamers. This led him to create 1HP, which has grown from being a physical therapy-focused entity to an all-encompassing wellness team. Dr. McGee joined 1HP later, bringing her expertise in neuroscience and exercise sports science to the table. Together, they have built a robust organization that covers various aspects of health, from nutrition to mental health.
The connection between gaming and wellness is stronger than many realize. Gamers often face unique health challenges, including physical strain and mental stress. Incorporating wellness practices into gaming not only helps in preventing injuries but also enhances overall performance. Cultivating healthy gaming habits ensures that players can enjoy their passion for longer periods without adverse effects on their health.
Physical therapy plays a vital role in esports by addressing the physical demands of gaming. Long hours of gameplay can lead to musculoskeletal issues, which physical therapists can help manage and prevent. Dr. Hwu and Dr. McGee emphasize the importance of understanding the specific needs of gamers and providing tailored solutions to improve their physical health. This includes exercises, ergonomic advice, and injury prevention strategies.
Mental health is as important as physical health in gaming. Meditation and mindfulness practices have been shown to improve focus, reduce stress, and enhance cognitive function. Dr. McGee highlights the role of these practices in helping gamers maintain mental clarity and composure, which are crucial for high-level performance. Integrating mindfulness into daily routines can lead to significant improvements in both gaming and overall well-being.
For those looking to enter the field of esports physical therapy, Dr. Hwu and Dr. McGee offer valuable advice. They stress the importance of gaining field experience, pursuing a STEM education, and maintaining a passion for both gaming and health. Aspiring professionals should seek opportunities to shadow experienced therapists, engage in relevant coursework, and stay updated with the latest research in both physical therapy and gaming.
Schools have a unique opportunity to support students' passion for gaming while promoting healthy habits. By providing resources and creating programs that focus on the educational and developmental benefits of gaming, schools can help students pursue their interests in a structured and positive environment. Encouraging a balance between gaming and wellness can lead to better academic and personal outcomes for students.
Esports health and wellness are critical for sustainable and successful gaming careers. Dr. Matthew Hwu and Dr. Caitlin McGee from Team 1HP have shown how integrating physical therapy and wellness practices can enhance performance and prevent injuries. Their work underscores the importance of a holistic approach to health in gaming. For those interested in exploring this field further, consider reaching out to professionals, gaining relevant experience, and staying passionate about both gaming and health.
The US Academic Esports League (USAEL) is dedicated to guiding students in their gaming passion through a holistic approach that values academics along with physical and mental wellness. By integrating esports into education, USAEL provides a platform for students to enhance their gaming skills while engaging in learning through academic curriculum and SEL based lessons. This ensures participants excel in competitive gaming and cultivate healthy habits, maintaining academic success. USAE believes gaming should enrich students' lives, promoting a balanced lifestyle focused on health and personal growth.
Dr. Matt Hwu is a distinguished figure in the esports and healthcare industries, recognized for his pioneering role as an Esports Physical Therapist and the CEO and founder of 1HP, a program designed to provide accessible care for gamers and desk workers. His career is marked by a unique blend of expertise in orthopedic physical therapy and a lifelong passion for gaming.
