The purpose of this module is to provide students with an introduction to human anatomy, exercise physiology, biomechanics and the principles of strength and conditioning. Various systems of the body (such as the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory, metabolic and nervous) will be explored in the context of biomechanics and/or exercise physiology. In biomechanics, students will be introduced to the fundamental concepts of human movement analysis through studying basic anatomical and mechanical principles, including an analysis of the musculo-skeletal system and movement patterns. Techniques for assessing sports-related kinematics and kinetics, will be developed, through the use of laboratory exploration. In exercise physiology, techniques for monitoring physiological performance and responses to exercise will be learnt and evaluated, such as methods of assessing aerobic and anaerobic capability (e.g., via laboratory- and field-based assessment of VO2max, lactate response, maximal intensity exercise, and flexibility). In the strength and conditioning context, students will be introduced to specific laboratory and applied physical test protocols and exercise prescriptions for the development of athletic performance. Practical and technical skills in data collection, and skills in data analysis will also be taught and developed.

Assessment 1: An online multiple-choice exam (OMCE) on given topics weighted at 35%, and assessing learning outcomes 1, 2 and 3. The OMCE will involve the use of a scientific calculator and require students to solve basic biomechanical problems in order to quantify movements and/or forces during sporting actions mathematical problems.

Assessment 2: An instructional video weighted at 30% showing the delivery of a training session for either a strength, power, plyometric or speed and agility protocol, assessing Learning Outcomes 1 and 2. The instructional video will require students to use current technologies to visually record themselves conducting the instruction of a training protocol. The instruction needs to address the areas of instructional cues, biomechanical assessment and anatomical references for effective exercise prescription.

Assessment 3: A laboratory results book weighted at 35%, and assessing Learning Outcomes 1, 4 and 5. The laboratory results book will require students to: collect physiological and physical performance data during their laboratory practical sessions; reflect on their skills and ability in executing physiological monitoring and physical performance tests; provide an analysis of the data collected in relation to how the body responds to exercise and adapts to training; and give a justification for selecting a test (or tests) for measuring a particular physiological or performance variable.

Formative feedback/assessment:
Students will be tested on their knowledge of biomechanical-related anatomy, exercise physiology, and on the application of biomechanical and physiological knowledge to situations within sport and exercise science during the delivery of the module. These experiences will provide important formative feedback about their knowledge, understanding and ability to undertake testing in this area. Students will be provided with formative assessment and feedback via supervised practical sessions where feedback will be given directly to students by supervising staff on their execution and knowledge of physiological monitoring tests. Written tasks and short quizzes will also be provided, which will be either peer-assessed or answers will be given directly from module staff (e.g., via verbal or electronic format).

A blended approach will be utilised on this module as a mixture of online and face to face lectures, supplemented by self-lead learning tasks guided and facilitated by the tutor. Furthermore, there will be lab-based sessions to apply conceptual theories into practice.

1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the structure and function of various systems of the body, which are relevant to biomechanics, exercise physiology, and strength and conditioning.

Knowledge and Understanding
Learning

2. Identify and communicate the anatomical and mechanical principles of biomechanics and strength and conditioning

Communication
Knowledge and Understanding

3. Solve quantitative and qualitative biomechanical problems.

Problem Solving
Analysis

4. Execute, evaluate and reflect on a range of methods and techniques to monitor and analyse physiological and performance variables.

Communication
Reflection
Analysis

5. Interpret and analyse physiological and physical data obtained during test protocols.

Communication
Analysis

Blackboard Virtual Learning Environment
Microsoft Teams
Internet access
Library facilities
Fully equipped physiology laboratory

Comfort, P., Jones, P.a., & McMahon J. J., (Eds) (2019). Performance assessment in strength and conditioning. London. Routledge.
Floyd, R. T. (2015). Manual of structural kinesiology. New York: McGraw-Hill.
Kenney, W. L., Wilmore, J. H., & Costill, D. L. (2015). Physiology of sport and exercise. (6th ed.). Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.
McCaw, S. T. (2014). Biomechanics for Dummies. Hoboken: John Wiley & Sons.
Turner, A., & Comfort, P. (Eds) (2018). Advanced strength and conditioning: An evidence based approach. London. Routledge.