Fundamentals of Sport and Exercise Science

This module is designed to provide students with an understanding of the fundamental principles of sport and exercise science and an introduction to their application to physical activity, sport, fitness and health. Students will be equipped with the knowledge and skills required to conduct and interpret a range of fitness tests that are appropriate for the general population and the sporting population. A focus of Fundamentals of Sport and Exercise Science is the practical application of testing procedures to the measurement of physiological function. In this module issues related to work (and its measurement), energy supply, physiological capacity and muscular fitness are covered, with emphasis on the integration of these concepts, the use of scientific rigour and evidence-based practice. Practical classes will cover various fundamental skills for sport and exercise scientists including standard health screening procedures and the principles and practice of aerobic and muscular fitness testing. The aim of the module is to highlight and introduce the fundamental key scientific concepts and principles, across the three main sports science disciplines of physiology, psychology and biomechanics.

1. Identify and discuss the components of fitness that are essential for health and for optimal performance in a variety of sports and athletic events.

2. Conduct a needs analysis and set appropriate training goals for athletes, team sports, or members of the general population.

3. Explain the scientific principles underpinning training programme design.

4. Set up, deliver and interpret a range of field based fitness tests for the general population, athletes, and team sports.

5. Analyse and interpret scientific data.