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.
- Module Supervisor: Christopher McManus