This module aims to provide you with a theoretical and practical understanding of the value and limitations inherent in assessing fitness and of the methods and outcomes of training to enhance components of fitness. You will learn how to perform reliable fitness tests, learn how to interpret their results and develop an understanding of the limitations of test methods. Fitness assessment provides the baseline measures and monitoring tools that inform the design and implementation of training programmes. We shall review the rationale for, and the design and management of training programmes to develop different components of fitness that are tailored to produce sport- and health-specific outcomes. This module will bring together and apply material from first and second year courses in physiology, nutrition, psychology and biomechanics.
Learning outcomes:
In order to pass this module, students will need to be able to:
1) describe the components of fitness and performance with reference to basic principles of physics and physiology;
2) describe and explain the rationale of named test protocols, the effect of test protocols and exercise modes on test results and discuss the acute physiological responses to testing;
3) demonstrate a sound knowledge and understanding of the use of fitness testing equipment, pre-test preparation and the principles of quality assurance;
4) demonstrate a sound knowledge and understanding of aspects of the classical test theory and its application to exercise testing, pre-test preparation and the principles of quality assurance;
5) design and justify training and testing programmes to develop aerobic fitness, strength, power and speed;
6) discuss the importance of body composition for sport and fitness, describe how it is measured and discuss how it may be modified by training;
7) describe and explain the importance of clinical cardio-respiratory exercise testing.
This module aims to provide you with a theoretical and practical understanding of the value and limitations inherent in assessing fitness and of the methods and outcomes of training to enhance components of fitness. You will learn how to perform reliable fitness tests, learn how to interpret their results and develop an understanding of the limitations of test methods. Fitness assessment provides the baseline measures and monitoring tools that inform the design and implementation of training programmes. We shall review the rationale for, and the design and management of training programmes to develop different components of fitness that are tailored to produce sport- and health-specific outcomes. This module will bring together and apply material from first and second year courses in physiology, nutrition, psychology and biomechanics.
Learning outcomes:
In order to pass this module, students will need to be able to:
1) describe the components of fitness and performance with reference to basic principles of physics and physiology;
2) describe and explain the rationale of named test protocols, the effect of test protocols and exercise modes on test results and discuss the acute physiological responses to testing;
3) demonstrate a sound knowledge and understanding of the use of fitness testing equipment, pre-test preparation and the principles of quality assurance;
4) demonstrate a sound knowledge and understanding of aspects of the classical test theory and its application to exercise testing, pre-test preparation and the principles of quality assurance;
5) design and justify training and testing programmes to develop aerobic fitness, strength, power and speed;
6) discuss the importance of body composition for sport and fitness, describe how it is measured and discuss how it may be modified by training;
7) describe and explain the importance of clinical cardio-respiratory exercise testing.
This module is part of the continuing programme of skills-focused modules that provides you with the opportunity to develop some of the skills you need as a sport and exercise practitioner and ensure you can compete successfully in the job market. You will be encouraged to undertake sport science/coaching specific work experience and to reflect on your experience. You will produce a portfolio of skills allowing you to evaluate the skills you have gained during any work experience, your degree and activities outside of your course (e.g. voluntary work, sporting activities etc.).
In the Summer School a number of options will be available which develop your skills as a sport and exercise practitioner. These include on-field first aid management, coaching, and applied sports science. In the research methods and data analysis part of the module you will practice and extend your skills in processing, evaluating, and analysing research and data. Finally, this module will provide you with a structured opportunity to think about your future and about how the skills you have developed through work opportunities (including volunteering), academic, sporting and social experiences of your university life are contributing towards and transferable to your career development. It will also enable you to develop a career action plan to support you in fulfilling your hopes and potential.
Learning outcomes:
To pass this module students will need to be able to:
1. participate in a research project to prepare you for your third year research dissertation;
2. apply a variety of standard statistical methodologies to the evaluation and analysis of typical data in the sport and exercise sciences;
3. demonstrate an understanding of the meaning of data presented in a variety of formats;
4. demonstrate an understanding of the job application process and preparation of curriculum vitae's and accompanying documents;
5. develop a written strategy to optimise your employability;
6. update your personal development and skills e-portfolio;
7. reflect upon the learning experiences of life at University and plan your development for the future.
Part A: Sports Science Summer School – (normally undertaken at the end of Year 1) practical skills in sports science. 5 days; 9.00-5.00 each day comprising practical sessions and lectures/seminars; 1 x 30 min MCQ; 15 h student directed learning.
Part B: Employability - 3 x 2 hrs careers workshops; 1 x 4 hrs careers conference;; 5 hr group tutorials; 2 x 15 min individual tutorials; 40 hrs student directed work based experience(which can include voluntary work, work as a sabbatical officer in SU sports club etc.).
Part C: Research Skills and Data Analysis – 3 x 2 hrs statistics workshops; 1 x 2 hr statistics assessment, 1 x 2 hr presentation skills, 1 x 2 hr evidence searching, 1 x 2hr appraising the evidence, 1 x 2hr translating evidence to practice and writing, 1 x 2hr basic skills in excel, 1 x 2hr basic data science, 1 x 2hr Ethics
Part D: Research Participation - 8hrs research participation
The aim of exercise physiology is to understand the way in which the body's systems respond and adapt to exercise and training. In this module we will focus on the acute and chronic adaptations to exercise and training of the cardiovascular, pulmonary and muscular systems and consider how each system contributes to limitations of human performance. We will explore how the nervous and endocrine systems integrate the response to exercise and training. We will also explore differences in response and adaptation between adult and paediatric participants in exercise.
Learning outcomes:
To pass this module students need to be able to:
1. explain how the cardiovascular, pulmonary and muscular systems respond to exercise and adapt to training;
2. explain the principles of respiratory gas exchange and gas transport, and evaluate the roles of the cardiovascular, pulmonary and muscular systems in the limitation of human exercise performance;
3. explain how the nervous and endocrine systems co-ordinate the acute and chronic responses to exercise;
4. demonstrate competence in retrieval, analysis and interpretation of published information.
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Module Description
This module will provide the student with a broad introduction to the psychology of exercise and physical activity. The student will explore the psychological mechanisms that explain how an active lifestyle can enhance wellbeing. Despite the evidence that an active lifestyle is good for wellbeing and health, not everyone is meeting the minimum recommendations for physical activity. Why this behaviour is not being performed will be explored, by examining theories, empirical research, interventions, and initiatives that have incorporated active living and leisure-time exercise. Students will be encouraged throughout the module to enhance their critical thinking skills to evaluate research evidence and communicate their knowledge to academic and general population audiences.
Module Aims
This module aims to provide you with a theoretical and practical understanding of how psychology underpins physical activity behaviours which in turn, can improve wellbeing and quality of life.On successful completion of this module, the student will be able to:
1. Understand what is meant by wellbeing and how this relates to physical and psychological health
2. Understand how physical activity and active lifestyles aid wellbeing
3. Understand theories of behaviour change, behaviour change techniques and how these can be used in intervention design
4. Understand social and individual difference (personality) constructs that influence activity engagement.
5. Critically evaluate and understand what factors may contribute to a “successful” physical activity intervention
6. Demonstrate key skills in the retrieval, synthesis, analysis, and communication of information from current literature in the field
The aim of this module is to advance students' understanding of the psychology of sport and exercise. The content of the lectures builds upon the knowledge gained in the first year module by exploring in more depth the theoretical explanations of psychological phenomena in sport and exercise. It explores a diverse literature which includes issues about skills, research methodology, mood and about achieving behaviour change. The learning outcomes listed below represent the minimum that is expected of a second year student of sport and exercise psychology; it is the intention of the staff working on this module to stimulate the development of more advanced student learning skills.
Learning Outcomes:
To pass this module a student needs to be able to:
1. evaluate sport and exercise participation and achievement using psychological perspective, theories and models;
2. explain differences between ability and skill;
3. describe individual differences in skilled performance;
4. describe and evaluate theories of motor development;
5. describe the relationship between skill, motor development and maturation;
6. explain how emotions effect performance and how performance effects emotions;
7. explain the role of cognition on emotions and performance;
8. measure selected aspects of emotion and cognition among athletes and exercisers;
9. explain the behavioural antecedents of exercise non-adherence;
10. describe strategies used to change behaviour including motivational interviewing;
11. explain the importance of mood in sport and exercise;
12. demonstrate competence in retrieval, analysis and interpretation of published information.
After natural talent and adequate training, the role of the diet is crucial for athletic success. Whether optimising training adaptations, enhancing performance or altering body composition, correct dietary intake is essential for achieving these goals. This module will build on the knowledge gained from SE103 (Nutrition and Metabolism), with a focus on performance nutrition strategies. It will explore macronutrient requirements for athletes across a variety of performance types (endurance, strength, power) with particular reference to evidence-based guidelines and published literature. Furthermore, the role of ergogenic aids in enhancing performance and supporting athlete health will be discussed. The module will take the theoretical underpinnings relating to ergogenic aids and apply these in a laboratory environment, offering a hands-on opportunity to evaluate the efficacy of certain supplements.
The programme will develop understanding in applied dietary strategies to advance the athletes' performance, whilst appreciate the nuance’s with translating scientific, evidence-based literature into real-life food intake. The module will afford opportunities to engage with cutting-edge scientific literature, whilst consider the key issues in designing, implementing and analysing performance nutrition research. A variety of key skills and knowledge will be developed throughout the module, including the advancement of scientific knowledge, understanding and use of research, problem solving, understanding the delivery environment and communication.
The module will include a number of approaches to learning, including lectures, laboratory practical’s group work and self-directed learning.
Human movement, in particular walking and running, is studied in some detail. The module starts by studying techniques used to measure motion and results from such measurements are then analysed. The module considers the action of a range of subjects from elite athletes to the disabled and looks at the differences in the motion. In the first part of the module, instrumentation used in the analysis of movement is described. The final part of the module is concerned with the analysis of the data and its interpretation.
Learning outcomes:
To pass this module students will need to be able to:
1. discuss the characteristics of the motions of running, walking and throwing;
2. describe various experimental techniques used in the analysis of human movement;
3. operate video analysis equipment and use a force plate;
4. analyse, interpret and discuss motion capture (video) and force-plate data;
5. discuss factors that influence the energy cost (and biomechanical characteristics) of locomotion;
6. discuss the factors that determine gait and gait transition;
7. demonstrate an understanding of the measurement of energy cost and force application in human movement;
8. demonstrate competence in retrieval, analysis and interpretation of data and published information.
This module will develop students' skill to perform a thorough needs analysis of sports, individuals, and/or teams, examine psychological strategies that are used to enhance performance, and examine how to develop interventions based on the current research literature. The module will also explore the role of technology to enhance the delivery of sport psychology services. The module builds on Year 1 and 2 Sport and Performance Psychology modules and will focus on the application of scientific principles to enhance athletic performance.
Learning Outcomes:
To pass this module students will need to be able to:
1. Discuss specific theories and models within sport psychology;
2. Apply a range of needs analysis techniques to collect psychological data from individuals and teams;
3. Evaluate evidence to determine the strengths and weaknesses of individuals and teams;
4. Critically evaluate the merits of various psychological strategies;
5. Design interventions to improve athletic performance;
6. Utilise technology to enhance the delivery of sport psychology services;
7. Coherently present ideas in written and oral form;
8. Demonstrate an ability to work effectively in a team to produce scientific resources.
The theme of the module is contemporary issues in the science of sport and exercise, and their implications in health and/or performance contexts for individuals, groups, or society. You will have the opportunity to examine selected issues in depth from a range of options, engage with cutting-edge research, develop informed opinions on the topics, and to present information in different formats. The module is a departure from the traditional module style to which you have been accustomed. There will be some lectures but the module will require background reading for each of the topics discussed.
Learning Outcomes:
To pass this module, students will need to be able to:
1) Explain the impact of advances in the science of sport and exercise;
2) Obtain and critically appraise the research literature.
3) Interpret evidence and develop meaningful conclusions
4) Coherently present ideas to different audiences in written and oral form
The final year research project is an opportunity for you to carry out an individual scientific investigation on a topic relating to your degree specialisation. You will use the skills developed in the module to identify, with your supervisor, a suitable research question and then design an experimental approach to obtain data addressing this question. Your analysis and presentation of these data in a suitable scientific paper format report forms the main assessed component of this module. The second major component involves researching, understanding and writing critically about the scientific literature relating to your project work.
You will also be assessed on the skills that you develop in carrying out your project including your planning, management and organisation skills, as well as your reflection on your progress. You will be assessed on your oral project presentation skills and response to questions. An additional element is your employability portfolio (based on a job interview, reflection of the interview and resultant action plan), which will also be assessed.
Throughout the year we will also be running a range of compulsory and optional sessions giving you the chance to learn about a range of different career paths and to develop the skills and techniques you might need to be successful to securing your next steps.
Learning Outcomes:
To pass this module students will need to be able to:
1) Develop a project plan, including the experimental, analytical and statistical methods to be used;
2) Demonstrate an understanding of the health and safety and ethical issues related to scientific research and undertake appropriate risk and ethics assessments;
3) Maintain a record of project work and data collection;
4) Demonstrate responsibility for personal time management and progress and for any necessary amendments to the project plan;
5) Communicate effectively by an oral presentation of project work
6) Produce an updated CV and action plan;
7) Address scientific questions on the background, methods, data and future direction from expert assessors;
8) Research the scientific literature relating to their Research Project area and present this information as an original critical review;
9) Carry out a research project and obtain sufficient data of good quality using appropriate experimental, analytical and statistical methods;
10) Analyse and interpret scientific data;
11) Communicate the outcomes of research effectively in a written report in scientific paper format;
12) Describe and critically evaluate data from research articles;
13) Refer appropriately to published work.
The principal role physical activity plays in contemporary society is increasingly acknowledged from social, environmental and public health perspectives. Drawing from several disciplines this module will consider topical issues relating to the effectiveness of physical activity interventions across the life course on a range of health and wellbeing outcomes. It will explore how evidence-based physical activity initiatives and interventions in different environments and settings shape behaviour. It will review the value of school based physical activity interventions for children, how workplace settings can be used to facilitate activity and reduce sedentary behavior, how exercise settings (e.g. indoor vs. green exercise) can be used as a vehicle to drive behavioural change in adults, through to preventing falls and increasing activity levels in the elderly. There is a growing demand for practitioners to critically evaluate the current evidence-base and gain an understanding of how this knowledge can be translated to inform their applied professional practice. The module will afford opportunities to engage with cutting-edge research and develop transferable communication skills in translating research findings into evaluative reports that can be used and understood by a range of audiences (e.g. commissioners, stakeholders, policy makers, providers, users and the lay person). This module will be of particular interest to students pursuing a career in health promotion, public health, teaching, occupational health or the fitness and personal training industry.
Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this module, the student will be able to:
1. Demonstrate understanding of the principles of evidence-based practice;
2. Demonstrate knowledge of the development and evaluation of interventions to increase physical activity and reduce sedentary behaviour across the life course;
3. Critically evaluate the effectiveness of evidence-based physical activity interventions and how they can be used to inform professional practice;
4. Identify, synthesise and critically evaluate a range of evidence types of physical activity and health related information including research papers, government publications and assessments;
5. Demonstrate competence in data analysis, presentation and interpretation to translate research findings into an evaluative report to inform the wider public health agenda.