Course overview
In this course, students will develop an advanced knowledge of exercise physiology with specific reference to exercise testing and prescription. Topics featured in the lecture series include the scientific principles of exercise prescription, methods of physiological assessment during exercise, exercise in special and clinical populations and exercise in extreme environments. Students will gain experience in conducting exercise tests and will complete a laboratory project where data collected during physiological assessments will be utilised to prescribe a relevant exercise programme specific to the individual. Finally, students will, in groups, partake in an analysis of exercise prescription for a specific clinical case study based upon published literature, which will be presented to staff at the end of semester.
Course learning outcomes
- Describe the individual and integrated physiological responses to chronic exercise.
- Assess the physiological responses of an individual during exercise and apply this information to the design of a suitable and relevant advanced exercise program.
- Apply knowledge of the adaptations to chronic exercise to provide a rationale for the provision of exercise programs to improve and maintain specific aspects of health and performance.
- Design an exercise program that meets the needs of individuals in consideration of current, best-practice guidelines and the exercise capacity, tolerance and motivation of the individual.
- Recognise and understand the professional issues associated with the provision of exercise physiology services.
- Describe the influence of extreme environments on exercise training and performance.
- Evaluate the role of exercise training/rehabilitation in patients with chronic disease and recommend appropriate strategies to implement exercise as a therapeutic tool.