SP6061 - Applied Exercise Physiology (2024/25)
| Module specification | Module approved to run in 2024/25 | ||||||||||||
| Module title | Applied Exercise Physiology | ||||||||||||
| Module level | Honours (06) | ||||||||||||
| Credit rating for module | 15 | ||||||||||||
| School | School of Human Sciences | ||||||||||||
| Total study hours | 150 | ||||||||||||
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| Running in 2024/25(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change) | No instances running in the year |
Module summary
This module emphasizes development of very focussed practical skills related to athlete testing and support. You will develop the ability to provide testing and data interpretation using a range of techniques including cardiopulmonary exercise testing. You will engage also in understanding of the physiological effects of, and adaptations to, differing climatic and environmental conditions as they relate to both exercise performance and the provision of specific athlete support under these conditions. The module conveys an appreciation of the complex nature of environmental physiology and examines the practical implications for exercise preparation and performance under these conditions. There is also a focus on core competencies associated with Exercise Physiology identified by prospective employers so that students will become equipped with a range of skills relevant to the workplace including data interpretation, lab equipment management and the ability to interact with and communicate complex information verbally and in writing using plain language.
Major aims include competency with:
• Cardiopulmonary exercise testing
• Blood lactate and glucose testing and interpretation
• Manual blood pressure measurement and interpretation
• Communication skill relevant to athletes, coaches and non-scientists.
• Comprehension of complex exercise Physiology concepts associated with oxygen uptake kinetics,and exercise metabolism.
Prior learning requirements
Prerequisite SP6051 must have been taken
Available for Study Abroad? NO
Syllabus
Cardiovascular and respiratory adaptations (heart rate, stroke volume, blood pressure, minute ventilation, breathing frequency), skeletal muscle responses (including the effects of fatigue), exercise metabolism (energy systems), advanced acid-base regulation (buffer systems, training methods and nutritional supplements available), hormonal adaptations, training adaptations, detraining and practical solutions. (LO1, LO2, LO3)
Impact of different environmental conditions including:
Decreased barometric pressure: physiological responses to high altitude therefore both hypoxia and hyperoxia, short and long-term exposure (LO1)
Extreme heat and cold: Thermoregulatory control systems, short and long-term adaptations to hot and cold environments. Pathological conditions. Avoidance and treatment of hyperthermia in sports persons. Interactions with humidity (LO1, LO3)
Zero- and micro- gravity: physiological and pathological changes, their mechanisms, and alleviation/treatment (LO1, LO3)
Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity
Theory-driven lectures will be supported by interactive seminars and practical sessions. Lectures will provide the essential theoretical base, whereas seminars/practicals offer students an opportunity to apply this knowledge to sport and exercise practice. Students will have access to the environmental chamber as well as simulation devices for altitude during practical classes.
Key strategies:
Lectures
Laboratory practical sessions
Workshops/Seminars (discussion/interaction/experiential learning)
WebLearn (blended learning/information point/discussion board)
Self-directed learning
Summative and Formative assessments will be dispersed evenly across the semester enabling students to gain early feedback and reflect on progress in an ongoing basis.
Learning outcomes
LO 1: Understand the physiological consequences and practical implications of exercise in a range of extreme environments.
LO 2: Demonstrate an ability to disseminate scientific information in verbal and written style and in a professional manner.
LO 3: Use appropriate methods of exercise performance testing, effectively collect and critically interpret physiological measurements taken during exercise.