Normal Gledhill, a York University professor emeritus and distinguished figure in the field of exercise physiology, passed away on Jan. 16, surrounded by his family.
Gledhill's academic journey began with his undergraduate and master's degrees at the University of Western Ontario, followed by a PhD in physiology and preventative medicine from the University of Wisconsin. He further honed his expertise with post-doctoral studies in respiratory physiology at Toronto's Hospital for Sick Children.
Norman Gledhill
In 1974, Gledhill joined the School of Kinesiology and Health Sciences at York University, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the curriculum and developing key programs such as the undergraduate certificate program in fitness assessment and exercise counselling and the master of fitness science graduate program. His academic career at York was marked by his mentorship of numerous students and his leadership in various capacities. He published over 150 peer-reviewed research articles, 11 books or manuals, and 26 conference proceedings and book chapters.
Gledhill's passion for education and lifelong learning was evident in his extensive contributions to the field of exercise physiology. His research spanned a wide range of applications, including ergogenic aids, cardiac function, health and performance-related fitness strategies, sports medicine, occupational physiology, respiratory physiology and cardiovascular physiology.
Beyond his academic achievements, Gledhill was instrumental in establishing Canada's doping control program in the 1980s under the Sport Medicine Council of Canada and Sport Canada, as well as developing internationally respected guidelines for blood doping in sport. His work earned him appointments with the International Federation of Sports Medicine and the International Amateur Athletic Federation (now known as World Athletics). As chairman of the Canadian Centre for Drug-Free Sport (now the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport), Gledhill travelled the world, assisting other nations in developing policies to encourage fair competition.
He was also deeply involved in Canadian amateur sport development. He held positions with the Canadian Figure Skating Association's Medical/Scientific Committee, Squash Canada and the Canadian Association of Sport Sciences (now Canadian Society for Exercise Physiolog). He provided physiological fitness assessments and training strategies to various athlete groups, including figure skaters, the Crazy Canucks Ski Team, women's soccer, Canada's cricket team, field hockey teams, and synchronized swimming teams. He and his students at York University were instrumental in designing and conducting the NHL Entry Draft combine and investigating the physical fitness of prospective junior hockey players.
Gledhill's commitment to promoting physical activity extended beyond his professional work. He led the development of a credentialing program for exercise professionals, ensuring evidence-based standards of practice across Canada. This program has been adopted by numerous countries to ensure safe exercise practices. Gledhill also played a leading role in designing and hosting conferences that linked scientific research with public policy to advance health-enhancing physical activity participation.
His journey through life was marked by numerous achievements and contributions, and his capacity to bring others along with him. His legacy will continue to live on in the knowledge he imparted, the lives he enriched and the inspiration he provided to all who knew him. His groundbreaking research, innovative teaching and tireless commitment to fostering excellence have left an indelible mark on the discipline of exercise physiology.
This story was originally featured in YFile, York University's community newsletter.
