Back to course details

Sport and Exercise Science BSc (Hons)

Cambridge

Year 1

Multidisciplinary Sport and Exercise Science 1 (30 credits)

Within this module you will be introduced to key topics and concepts of sport and exercise science to develop your knowledge and enthusiasm in the area. To do this, we will approach sport and exercise science from a multidisciplinary perspective. Case studies and live briefs are used to contextualise your learning from real-world scenarios. Through a combination of lectures, practical and team-based learning sessions you will develop an understanding how biomechanics, sport psychology and exercise physiology corroborate in sport and exercise behaviour. For example, what psychological, biomechanical and metabolic factors influence the performance of an elite athlete? And, how can we motivate sedentary individuals to exercise more and what physiological adaptations are expected? As such you will develop a clear understanding of the commonalities and distinctions of the disciplines of sport and exercise in different real world scenarios. The development of knowledge is complemented with gaining key transferable,practical and employability skills such as working collaboratively, analysing and presenting data and practical laboratory skills.

View the full module definition

Introduction to Sport Coaching and Development (30 credits)

Understanding the sporting landscape is the starting point for any professional working in sport. This module. This module introduces students to the key theoretical and practical concepts of sport coaching and development. Delivered through a series of lectures, seminars, practicals, as well as industry based guest lectures and a field trip to a major sport location. The module examines the role of key organisations that oversee and deliver sport in the UK (and abroad) as well as an appreciation of the broader sporting context in which sport practitioners operate. By the end of the module, you will have developed an appreciation of the coaching process in terms of the pedagogical, managerial, behavioural and ethical components which enable good practice. As well as the module specific knowledge, you will also further enhance your key employability skills of written communication and your awareness of the options available for career pathways.

View the full module definition

Practical Delivery of Sport and Physical Education (30 credits)

Practitioners such as coaches, teachers and instructors facilitate quality experiences in sport and physical activity. This module will develop and apply the key theoretical and practical concepts that underpin effective delivery in contemporary sport and exercise contexts. By the end of the module, you will have developed an understanding of the teaching and coaching process including key areas such as the roles, techniques, and planning skills required to provide an educational experience in sport. You will begin to assess the quality of your own and others’ coaching/teaching delivery, in relation to adherence to professional codes of conduct, awareness of health and safety issues and understanding of how a session should progress. The skills of coaching and teaching physical education will be compared and considered, by experiencing practice and evaluating the use of various communication and organisational skills such as time management, feedback and problem solving. The techniques used to deliver a successful sport or physical education session will be taught using an integrated approach that includes practical delivery together with linked lectures, seminars and reading groups. The module will help develop key transferable and employable skills in communication, organisation and analysis of practice in sport and physical activity. This module will be of particular interest for those who want to further their applied understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of coaching and teaching.

View the full module definition

Multidisciplinary Sport and Exercise Science 2 (30 credits)

Within this module you will be introduced to key topics and concepts of sport and exercise science to develop your knowledge and enthusiasm in the area. To do this, we will approach sport and exercise science from a multidisciplinary perspective. Case studies and live briefs are used to contextualise your learning from real-world scenarios. Through a combination of lectures,practical and team-based learning sessions you will develop an understanding how biomechanics, sport psychology and exercise physiology influence sport and exercise behaviour. For example, what psychological, biomechanical and metabolic factors influence the performance of an elite athlete? And, how can we motivate sedentary individuals to exercise more and what physiological adaptations are expected? As such you will develop a clear understanding of the commonalities and distinctions of the disciplines of sport and exercise in different real world scenarios. The development of knowledge is complemented with gaining key transferable, practical and employability skills such as working collaboratively, analysing and presenting data and practical laboratory skills.

View the full module definition

Professional Development - Level 4

At Anglia Ruskin University we strive to ensure you receive an outstanding Academic Education and Student Experience and understand that, whilst embedding employability skills within the credit-bearing curriculum is important, it is only part of the set of achievements needed in order for you to obtain career employment.This 0-credit module will be used to track and verify the progress you have made with respect to key employability skills and endeavour. You will work closely with your personal development tutor, SU Volunteering Services, Study Skills Plus, and the Faculty Employability Advisor to engage with co-curricular and extra-curricular opportunities and activities to enhance your personal attributes

Into ARU

Entering higher education is exciting; but it can also be a daunting experience. At ARU, we want all our students to make the most of the opportunities higher education provides, reach your potential, become lifelong learners and find fulfilling careers. However, we appreciate that the shift from secondary education, or a return to formal education is, in itself, quite a journey. This module is designed to ease that transition. You'll be enrolled on it as soon as you receive an offer from ARU so you can begin to learn about university life before your course starts. Through Into ARU, you'll explore a virtual land modelled around ARU values: Courage, Innovation, Community, Integrity, Responsibility, and Ambition. This innovative module is designed as a game, where you collect knowledge and complete mini tasks. You'll proceed at your own pace, though we you to have completed your Into ARU exploration by week 6. If for any reason you're unable to complete by that date, we'll signpost to existing services so that we can be confident that you are supported.

Year 2

Applied Research Skills (15 credits)

Within the discipline of Sport and Exercise Sciences it is well recognised that both quantitative and qualitative research designs provide different, but complementary, opportunities for researchers and practitioners to collect and evaluate coaching, health, and exercise data for the perspective or objective review of evidence to inform future applied practice. This module uses active and collaborative learning design that requires you to take the position of a researcher or practitioner (a complex problem solver) and to work through real-world sporting questions that need answering. Working as part of a team you will collaborate and contribute to the answering of these questions through collective negotiation and project management. Your development of these key employability skills is important for, and transferable to, any graduate-level job or post-graduate study. We will develop them together within the context of our subject area (Sport and Exercise Sciences) and the outcomes will support you in the development of your own piece of sustained independent work within your course – The Undergraduate Project module.

View the full module definition

Practical Competencies in Biomechanics

The key skills learnt in Level 4 now means you have an understanding of how the human is able to move and the different types of motion a body can have. The module Practical Competencies in Biomechanics advances your understanding in Biomechanics through developing an understanding of how to measure and record a sporting performer using a variety of approaches commonly used by biomechanists. Upon successful completion of the module, you will have a theoretical and practical understanding of the key competencies within the discipline of Biomechanics. Following the British Association of Sport and Exercise Science (BASES) ‘guidelines’ for biomechanics, this module will cover the following key areas: Motion analysis in both 2D and 3D perspectives; Electromyography (EMG), its use and practical application; Kinanthropometry in Biomechanics and Centre of Mass (CoM) modelling; Centre of pressure & postural control; Introduction to Force plates. This is an applied module. You will be taught the key theoretical underpinning and then be expected to engage in the practical application of the topic; which will take the form of seminar, lab practical or computer session. Your ability to proficiently complete a range of practical competencies relevant to the discipline of Biomechanics will form the key assessment within the module. In this module you will study and explore the content within the context of real sporting actions such as: standing, walking, running, jumping and throwing. The module will enable you to develop transferable skills such as IT, numeracy and communication and will encourage you to become an independent thinker with good study habits.

View the full module definition

Physiological Profiling for Strength and Power

The production of force and power across a range of motions and in conjunction with body dimensions are crucial in both everyday living and athletic performance. Accordingly this module will study the process of profiling the generation of force during short-term (anaerobic) conditions from both a performance and health-based perspective. The philosophy behind the module is the notion of validity and reliability in both test selection and execution. To this end the module will explore the means of assessing anaerobic (metabolic) power through such means as Wingate cycle tests, jump tests and Mararia stair tests, while anaerobic capacity will evaluated in the context of accumulated oxygen deficit, constant load trials and as well as lactate and critical power models. The determination of strength will address measures of isometric, isotonic and isoinertial force production using conventional ‘gym-based’ approaches to more clinically relevant measures such as the reactive strength index. These will be compared to the laboratory controlled assessment of strength (torque) using isokinetic dynamometery. Assessment of agility which brings together the neurological and metabolic aspects of force generation will be considered in the context of both physical and special certainty and measures will be critiqued for their relevance. Body composition will be considered through the use of skinfold assessment and callipers through to hydro-densiometry. Flexibility and the determination of the range of motion (ROM) will be evaluated in the context of indirect measures such as sit-and-reach through to more direct approaches using flexometers and goiniometers. This module will help to develop a series of transferable skills including practical (laboratory) techniques and skills relevant to general employment including report writing, data collection, handling and presentation and will be of particular interest to individuals wishing to apply their exercise physiology knowledge and work within a Sports Science Support environment both with athletes and clinical populations. The context for the journey within this module will be established using a series of live briefs showcasing how these concepts and transferable skills are utilised by graduates of ARU in the workplace.

View the full module definition

Psychological Profiling for Sport (15 credits)

The role of psychology in optimising sport performance is becoming increasingly recognised with many athletes now employing the services of sport psychology consultants and using mental skills in training and preparation for competition. Before designing an effective sport psychology intervention programme you must undertake a process of assessment and profiling to identify the mental strengths and weaknesses of the athlete. Within this module you will extent the knowledge you have gained at level 4, and we will specifically focus on the assessment methods needed to develop psychological profiles of athletes. For example, you will learn to use performance profiling and to conduct intake interviews. You will be challenged to examine the findings from this psychological assessment in relation to psychological theories to explain specific performance issues in the applied setting. The latest research within the topic areas will be examined and discussed and you will be encouraged to apply this research to case study scenarios and real-life situations in seminars and assignments. The module will be delivered through weekly sessions, combining lecture, seminar, active learning and practical elements. The module will be of particular interest to those who are planning careers in sport coaching or sport science support.

View the full module definition

Professional Development - Level 5

At Anglia Ruskin University we strive to ensure you receive an outstanding Academic Education and Student Experience and understand that, whilst embedding employability skills within the credit-bearing curriculum is important, it is only part of the set of achievements needed in order for you to obtain career employment.This 0-credit module will be used to track and verify the progress you have made with respect to key employability skills and endeavour. You will work closely with your personal development tutor, SU Volunteering Services, Study Skills Plus, and the Faculty Employability Advisor to engage with co-curricular and extra-curricular opportunities and activities to enhance your personal attributes.

Ruskin Module (15 credits)

Ruskin Modules are designed to prepare our students for a complex, challenging and changing future. These interdisciplinary modules provide the opportunity to further broaden your perspectives, develop your intellectual flexibility and creativity. You will work with others from different disciplines to enable you to reflect critically on the limitations of a single discipline to solve wider societal concerns. You will be supported to create meaningful connections across disciplines to apply new knowledge to tackle complex problems and key challenges. Ruskin Modules are designed to grow your confidence, seek and maximise opportunities to realise your potential to give you a distinctive edge and enhance your success in the workplace.

Nutrition for Health and Exercise (15 credits)

Explore the underlying importance of dietary intake to support both health and exercise-related demands. Using theoretical and evidence-based concepts you will consider the dietary macro-nutrients (carbohydrates, fats, proteins; including fluid intake) and micro-nutrients (vitamins and minerals) and their role in overall human health, with reference to population-based normative guidelines. You will also explore the practical applications of dietary strategies to support increased metabolic demands (e.g. exercise). Methods of dietary assessment, body composition and energy expenditure will be considered in line with nutritional evaluation using problem-based scenarios. Specifically, you will undertake a basic dietary analysis of a selected case study, and, working in teams, evaluate and design a nutrition programme for a specific case pertinent to health and/ or exercise. You will develop key employability skills pertinent within this area including: working with clients, dietary evaluation, programme design, team work and reflective practice.

View the full module definition

Perceptual Motor Skills (15 credits)

Athletes rely on a constant stream of sensory information (e.g. visual, auditory, proprioceptive) from the environment to execute the motor skills needed for successful sporting performance. In this module you will focus on the three stages in motor control: Perception; Decision; Action. The perception of sensory information will be discussed in relation to goal directed and stimulus driven behaviour from a theoretical and applied perspective. Within this you will examine topics such as the visual system and the use of eye tracking methodology for the assessment of visual attention. Additionally, you will examine the influence of factors such as anxiety, expertise and expectancies on the perception of sensory information and elements such as anticipation and decision making. The second part of the module will focus on programming movement (information processing and dynamic systems theories), movement coordination and the execution of motor skills. Also you will examine the relationship between perceptual information, movement control and skill execution.

View the full module definition

Strength and Conditioning (15 credits)

This role of the applied strength and conditioning (S&C) coach at all levels of sport has progressed in recent years and is now a fundamental role within the sport science support team. This module will provide an in-depth exploration of safe and effective S&C practice. You will develop an evidence based applied rationale for the role of S&C work in relation to different athletes. You will be introduced to the fundamental techniques and principles of athlete assessment, evaluation and training prescription in order to critically evaluate the individual’s or team’s needs. These applied modes will be discussed in the context of applying and disseminating your underlying scientific knowledge to optimise the athletes training considering the wide range of individuals you will encounter, the positive benefits this role can have as well as the social and professional responsibilities which are associated with S&C roles. Although the generic term “S&C” is applied to this training domain you will address the wider implications in relation the components of fitness: endurance, speed, strength, agility (or equivalent areas). You will also explore the rationale for approaches used in relation to training programme design which will be under-scored by the issues of physiological and anatomical adaptation. As well as the module specific principles aligned to the UKSCA assessment process (required to become an accredited S&C Coach) you will also further enhance your key employability skills of communicating, presenting and interpreting scientific data.

View the full module definition

Biomechanics: Analysis of Motion

This module extends the L5 module Practical Competencies in Biomechanics, further developing your understanding of force plates for data capture and analysis, and extends your understanding of motion analysis. You will be taught in a collaborative learning environment, engaging with other students, working in small groups to answer questions or work on mini tasks set in the lecture, seminar or computer session. The module content is focused on the initiation and development of motion in terms of both the internal forces produced by the musculoskeletal system and the external forces acting on the body. In order to understand human movement, you will explore the ground reaction force in depth. You will then see how the concepts of internal forces, the external net force and mass and acceleration are used to explain movement patterns. That will enable you to appreciate the importance of torque, momentum and impulse and to use these quantities to critically analyse a sporting action. This module content will also focus on the analysis of gait, a key skill that all Biomechanists should possess. The fundamental principles of gait analysis will be explored in a theoretical and practical manner. You (the student) will also gain sufficient experience to recognise differences in gait (and force) patterns between normal and pathological gaits. Throughout the module you will use force plates and motion analysis to investigate, analyse and appraise human movement. You will study and explore the content of the module in a series of lectures, seminars and experimental sessions. This will enable you to further develop both your scientific skills and your transferable skills such as IT, numeracy and communication.

View the full module definition

Physiological Profiling for Endurance

Aerobic physiology and functioning are the linchpins to all athletic and health-based activities. It from this starting point that this module will begin. You'll study the process of profiling aerobic endurance performance and health from a physiological and analytical perspective. The philosophy behind this module is the notion of validity and reliability in test selection. As such it will address the protocols and limitations associated with the assessment of maximum aerobic power (VO2max), while aerobic capacity will be addressed in the context of maximal lactate steady state, lactate minimum, individual anaerobic threshold, onset of blood lactate accumulation (OBLA) and DMax and the ventilatory threshold. The relevance of performance economy as a diagnostic tool will be considered and projected to show how this simple concept of sub-maximal oxygen uptake can be used to establish the performance indicator termed velocity at VO2max (vVO2max). Consideration will be given to the dynamics of oxygen supply and utilisation at the onset of exercise through a reflection of oxygen uptake kinetics. These concepts will all be used to explore exercise intensity domains and how the role of critical power and the W’ can be used to provide an objective measure of an integrated response to exercise. Clinical skills will also be considered through the application of such techniques as ECG, thoracic impedance, respiratory flow loops and cardiopulmonary exercise testing. This module will help to develop a series of transferable skills including practical (laboratory) techniques and skills relevant to general employment including report writing, data collection, handling and presentation and will be of particular interest to individuals wishing to apply their exercise physiology knowledge and work within a Sports Science Support environment both with athletes and clinical populations. The context for the journey within this module will be established using a series of live briefs showcasing how these concepts and transferable skills are utilised by graduates of ARU in the workplace.

View the full module definition

Year 3

Physiological Responses to Training

Within this module, you will critically evaluate the methods used in training and advance your knowledge on the array of physiological, metabolic and biochemical adaptations that arise. These are fundamental attributes required within professional practice in real-world settings, such as those working in elite sport (e.g. sport scientists, exercise physiologist and strength & conditioning coaches). Through a series of integrated lectures and seminars, we will address key the components of fitness (e.g. aerobic and anaerobic endurance, strength, power, flexibility and speed) and within each of these domains, you will explore the application of various training approaches in the context of intensity, frequency and duration (e.g. training loads). Throughout the module, you will synthesis current and relevant research, and complete in-depth analysis of how these training approaches are associated with the developmental status of an elite athlete, the phase of the training cycle and anticipated training outcome. You will then critically evaluate the training adaptations and reflect on the methodological approaches and interventions, to both derive the data and conclusions that were drawn. Particular emphasis will be placed on the key responses and adaptations to training, including; myocardial, haematological, immunological, enzymatic, cellular, substrate, metabolite, muscular and neurological. You will then develop a clear understanding of the training environments and practical considerations, before reflecting on the application of key training strategies and physiological consequences in association with altitude, heat and pollution exposure, jetlag, menstruation, aging and disability. This content reflects current and relevant professional practices, for example, sport practitioners (England FA, English Institute of Sport and Team GB physiologists, physiotherapists and strength & conditioning coaches) planning their preparations for Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup. Alongside the professional application of specialised knowledge within sport and exercise sciences, you will advance your key employability skills related to IT, numeracy and communication, in addition to translating research for a lay audience. This module will be of particular interest to those who wish to develop a critically applied scientific understanding of the physiological mechanisms of training, have interest in professional and high-performance sport and wish to pursue a career in the sport and exercise sciences.

View the full module definition

Physiological Basis of Training

This module will delve into the fascinating but sometimes controversial domain of training science and explore the nature training programme design, athlete development and limitations to the success of the athlete. To this end, it will commence with an exploration of what constitutes performance, examining the physiological and metabolic demands of sports. The major component of this module will though address the principles of training application and design. Consideration will be given to the laws of training in the context of the developing athlete and how these are linked to the of one-factor and two-factor theories of super-compensation. Time will be devoted to the nature of fatigue both as a prerequisite to the training adaptation but also as a function of the training load examining the peripheral and central manifestations of this key training mechanism. Fatigue will also be explored in the context of recovery and methods of recovery. In the context of fatigue and training adaptation the role of cellular messengers such as PGC-1α and mTOR will be considered to show how an adaptation manifests. The notion of fatigue, training and recovery will lead into the evaluation of under-performance syndrome addressing both what this is as psychobiological construct but also how this can be both monitored and avoided. These elements will all be brought together to evaluate the programming of training using an array of approaches including linear and non-linear periodisation and block training models and how these programmes can either through the use of a taper lead to an athletic peak or through the application of undulating loads lead to a maintenance of performance. A major aspect of this module will focus on populations, with particular reference to children, females and the disabled, the underlying biology will considered as well as how training had to be adjusted to accommodate this ‘special’ populations. This module will help to continue developing a series of transferable skills including practical (laboratory) techniques and skills relevant to general employment including report writing, data collection, handling and presentation and will be of particular interest to individuals wishing to apply their exercise physiology knowledge and work within a Sports Science Support environment both with athletes and clinical populations. The context for the journey within this module will be established using a series of live briefs showcasing how these concepts and transferable skills are utilised by graduates of ARU in the workplace.

View the full module definition

Undergraduate Research Project (30 credits)

The module provides you with the opportunity to select an area within Sport and Exercise Sciences, Sports Coaching and Physical Education, or Strength and Conditioning, and to determine and apply ethical standards, undertake an in-depth review of the literature, and create a research question derived from the review. Furthermore this module provides an opportunity to develop, conceptualise, execute, analyse and reflect upon your own independent research. The module is supported by 4 x 1 hour taught sessions where project management and development will be addressed. Additionally, a nominal 12 hours are allocated for personal supervision during the module.

View the full module definition

Advanced Work Placement (30 credits)

Getting extended real world work experience provides amazing learning and career development opportunities. This Sport and Exercise Sciences Advanced Work Placement module provides you with the opportunity to develop, conceptualise, execute, analyse and reflect upon your own learning experiences linked to a vocationally relevant graduate aligned placement. It provides you with the opportunity to focus your career aspirations in the final year of undergraduate study allowing you to immerse yourself, learning within a workplace and critically reflecting on the experience. The module will build on the employability theme which is embedded within the course. The module requires you to independently select an appropriate work related experience within the broad area of Sport and Exercise Sciences. You will commit to a regular schedule and work within the industry researching and providing support for a process/project/initiative while gaining an extended experience of the work place. This great opportunity will permit you to be informed on potential career, enhance your CV and confidently plan your future career upon graduation.

View the full module definition

Applied Biomechanics

An effective support team makes use of various sports and exercise sciences, such as physiology, biomechanics and psychology, to help improve the performance of an athlete, team or the quality of life of the general public. The module builds on all the concepts previously studied in Level 4 and 5. This includes: motion, (displacement, velocity, acceleration), force and momentum (the ground reaction force, the net force on the human, free-body diagrams and force vector diagrams), lever systems and the musculo-skeletal system, muscle contraction types and the production of force, the centre of mass, projectile science and work, energy and power. Additionally, this module concentrates on the application of biomechanics to improve technique and reduce predisposition to injury for sport or clinical populations. The aim of the module is to provide the knowledge and skills to successfully prescribe and/or deliver sport and exercise biomechanics interventions as a coach or sport scientist. During lecture and laboratory sessions you will work to develop the skills to undertake your own biomechanics assessment. You will then carry out this assessment with an external member and report back your findings. You will also critically evaluate the influence of an applied biomechanist in a coaching or clinical setting and learn about the needs and issues of different users.

View the full module definition

Applied Sports Psychology (15 credits)

An effective support team makes use of various sports and exercise sciences, such as physiology, biomechanics, and psychology, to help improve the performance of an athlete, of a team, or the quality of life of the general public. In Applied Sport Psychology we will explore how to plan a sport psychology intervention, from the different perspectives that can be adopted by practitioners, to understanding when and how different psychological skill training techniques (e.g., goal setting, imagery, mindfulness) can be used. Through the adoption of a team-based learning setting, you will be engaging with the latest research within the topic areas and you will learn how to examine and critique it. Together with the members of your team, you will then be encouraged to apply this research to case study scenarios. Life briefs and guest speakers with expertise in the areas explored will add richness to the content and variety of the module, which will consist of a series of lectures mixed with practice-based sessions. As well as providing you with subject-specific knowledge, this module also helps develop a number of transferable skills relevant to general employment including interpersonal skills, data collection, handling, presentation, and reflective practice. The content is therefore appropriate for students following both the Sport and Exercise Science and the Sport Coaching and Physical Education courses.

View the full module definition

Advanced Strength and Conditioning (15 credits)

This module provides the opportunity to build on wider exercise science and previous learning to investigate the latest evidence-based practice in Strength and Conditioning (S&C). You will learn, experience and analyse free weight lifting techniques with specific focus on more complex lifts and the derivatives associated with them. You will learn to apply this knowledge when coaching performers through this process and also consider the value of these exercises within the training cycle. Through observation of performers, you will identify and understand the coaching cues required to correct ineffective movement patterns. You will also develop a high level of knowledge to enable you to practically suggest and present appropriate interventions for performers of varying ability. Drawing upon your digital literacy skills you will investigate the use of technology/micro technology for monitoring performance and you will critically evaluate the methods of data collection for the exercise and conditioning professional. You will investigate how training may change when working with different performers with varying abilities and from different populations (e.g. youth/veteran athletes and disability athletes). Being able to change your professional practice relative to the specific population you are working with is a critical skill for the conditioning coach. Learning about the needs and issues to consider when training special populations will permit you to be a more proficient in the area. Through a combination of lectures and practical’s, split one third and two thirds respectively, you will be challenged to apply your underlying sports science and coaching knowledge, to effectively communicate this to athletes and to evaluate performance as you observe it. These are key skills required for people wishing to work as an S&C coach as well as in other coaching and sports science roles from community clubs through to professional teams.

View the full module definition

Performance and Exercise Nutrition (15 credits)

Following on from your Nutrition for Health and Exercise module, you will explore contemporary applications of dietary practice for sports performance. You will be introduced to, and review, the importance of macro/micro-nutrition with a focus on sport and exercise. Using evidence-based research, the impact of nutrition for different sporting contexts will be explored. Lecture-based theoretical considerations will be merged alongside seminar workshops to develop practical protocols for key performance nutrition areas including: nutrition for enhanced strength and power; endurance-based nutrition; weight making sports and weight management; and recovery-based strategies. A central focus of this module includes current research-based awareness of selected ‘ergogenic’ aids, and practical implications for sports performance (e.g. creatine, beta-alanine, caffeine and sodium bicarbonate). Ultimately, you will develop a critical understanding of applied aspects of nutrition relevant to the demands of a chosen sport.

View the full module definition

Current Topics in Biomechanics

Both the research, and the technology its often based on, advance quickly within the field of sport and exercise biomechanics. Therefore, the most pertinent issues of the day and the “hot” research topics are constantly changing. In this module, you will cover the most pertinent issues in sport and exercise biomechanics, taken from the leading domestic (e.g. BASES) and international (e.g. ISB, ASB, ISBS, ISEA) conferences. You will be given the opportunity to apply your understanding of the basic concepts in biomechanics to challenging areas of research and practice. You will develop a number of skills, including communication, evaluation and application, and ethical issues.

Exercise Medicine (15 credits)

This module will cover an in-depth and comprehensive study how physical activity and planned exercise improves health, and how they may be promoted. This module will expand and develop your knowledge gained at Level 4 and 5 using a multidisciplinary approach to apply this to the aspects of health and disease. The theoretical and practical know you acquire in this module will enable you to critically evaluate the role of physical activity in case studies of individuals with chronic and lifestyle-related health conditions. The role of exercise prescription will be analysed and discussed in detail to evaluate how physical exertion can result in positive psychological, physiological, and metabolic adaptations. From this, you will be able to design a research informed exercise programme that is justified by the intended adaptations to aid disease management and improve quality of life. This module will help to develop the key employability skills required in careers within clinical exercise science, working with clinical populations, and public health policy. The module will be taught through a combination of lectures and seminars. This module will be of particular interest to those who have an interest in physical activity, exercise and health, and wish to pursue a career in the clinical exercise sciences. Standard texts are available via the library and more specialist research literature is online.

View the full module definition

Contemporary Issues in Sport, Exercise and Performance Psychology (15 credits)

The advancement of knowledge, applications, technology and theories in the sport, exercise and performance psychology domain is rapidly increasing. On our Contemporary Issues in Sport, Exercise and Performance Psychology, you will therefore cover the most up-to-date topics discussed in national (e.g., BASES) and international (e.g. AASP, ISSP, FEPSAC) Sport and Exercise Psychology conferences. You will also consider the transfer and adaption of current and innovative research and technology from the general psychology domain. This is a great opportunity to be at the forefront on the sector whilst developing relevant transferable skills including problem solving, creativity, teamwork and thinking “outside of the box”.

View the full module definition