Course overview
This course will equip students with the necessary skills to safely and competently perform health, exercise and sport related assessments. Further, the students will be able to apply knowledge of the physiological effects of exercise and training to the evaluation of assessment outcomes. Physiological responses to exercise in extreme environments - heat, cold and altitude; body composition measurement using hydrodensitometry, skinfolds and bioelectrical impedance; physiology, measurement and interpretation of maximal aerobic power - sub-maximal prediction and maximal indirect calorimetry protocols; physiology, measurement and interpretation of lactate threshold; physiology, measurement and interpretation of anaerobic power; physiology, measurement and interpretation of muscular strength, power and endurance; Ratings of Perceived Exertion for prescribing exercise; determinants of data quality; ethical considerations for fitness testing.
Course learning outcomes
- Describe the physiological responses and adaptations to acute and chronic exercise in various environmental conditions, and the influence of ergogenic aids or technologies on these physiological responses.
- Interpret, explain and analyse physiological data obtained during acute exercise, and compare such data between time-points, individuals and populations.
- Identify and explain the common processes and equipment required to conduct accurate and safe health, exercise and sport related assessments, and conduct relevant assessments safely.
- Explain the scientific rationale, purpose, reliability, validity, assumptions and limitations of common assessments.
- Identify and describe the limitations, contraindications or considerations that may require the modification of assessments, or require further information from a health professional before proceeding, and make appropriate adjustments for relevant populations or clients or cease tests for individuals.
- Describe the principles and rationale for the calibration of equipment commonly used in assessments, including the recognition and adjustment of incorrectly calibrated equipment.
- Record, analyse and interpret information from assessments and convey the result, including the accuracy and limitations of the assessments, through verbal and/or written communication.