Course overview
The aim of this course is to develop knowledge of the theory underlying, and test procedures for evaluating, the physiological responses and adaptations to a range of fitness tests of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Content covers tests of aerobic fitness including submaximal and maximal tests for aerobic power, indirect calorimetry protocols, measurement and interpretation of lactate and ventilatory thresholds, laboratory versus field-based test protocols, subjective and objective measures of performance effort, limits of human capabilities, the rate, capacity and biochemical basis of the aerobic energy systems, and how the results impact health, fitness and physical performance. The influences of environmental conditions, calibration procedures, fatigue and error of measurements will be covered. The link between interpreting performance test outcomes to provide basic exercise programming advice to improve health, fitness and athletic performance is emphasised. There is a focus on interpreting a variety of physiological test results on a range of clients and to convey the results to clients in a meaningful way.
Course learning outcomes
- Explain the scientific rationale, purpose, reliability, validity, assumptions and limitations of common exercise- and health-related assessments.
- Identify and explain the common processes and equipment required to conduct accurate exercise- and health-related assessments.
- Interpret, explain and analyse physiological data obtained during acute exercise, and compare such data between time-points, individuals and populations
- Interpret information from assessments and convey the result, including the accuracy and limitations of the assessments, through written communication.
- Apply knowledge of the physiological responses to acute exercise and the adaptations to chronic exercise to provide a rationale for the provision of exercise programs to improve and maintain specific aspects of health, fitness and performance.
- Use physiological and psychological indicators to prescribe exercise and to predict exercise capacity.