Physical Activity for Health, Fitness and Wellbeing

Description

Overview: The aim of this module is to increase student’s understanding of the evidence-based benefits of physical activity for health, wellbeing and fitness, building on the foundation of knowledge gained in 1st year courses in physiology, psychology and physical activity for health. Students will gain practical experience of assessing physical activity and various components of fitness, which are valuable skills for future careers in this field. Syllabus: Outline The following areas will be covered: (i) Scientific basis for benefits of physical activity for health and disease prevention (in cardiovascular, respiratory and musculoskeletal body systems). (ii) Fitness, mortality and risk factors for disease. (iii) Evidence behind recommendations for health enhancing physical activity. (iv) Measurement of physical activity using questionnaires and activity monitors. (v) Measurement of body composition, flexibility & posture, muscular strength & endurance and cardiovascular fitness in field setting. (vi) Evaluation of physical activity and fitness profiles. (vii) Principles of program design and safety issues for physical activity. (viii) Practical application of program design to own physical activity, health and fitness. (ix) Personal experience of gym induction and exercise classes. Learning Outcomes: Having completed this module the student will be able to: (i) Analyse the evidence behind recommendations for health enhancing physical activity and justify the benefits of physical activity for health; (ii) Select and perform appropriate assessments of physical activity and fitness (including cardio-vascular fitness, body composition, muscular strength and endurance and flexibility) in a field-based setting; (iii) Interpret results and describe physical activity and fitness profiles; (iv) Experience a range of physical activities and design a personal physical activity programme. Assessment: Formative: (i) Tutorials after practical session will assess understanding and skill in taking measurements, and students may ask questions on workbook tasks. Preparation for and attendance at tutorials is not credited but completion is required to qualify for summative assessments. (ii) Weekly short answer/multiple choice questionnaires will be available online (through VLE) (feedback will be score and correct answers), and weekly tutorials will provide opportunity to discuss material and reading task. Summative: (i) A 2 hour examination consisting of short answer/multiple choice questions and essay style questions end of semester (50%) - addresses learning outcomes 1, 2, 4, 5. (ii) Practical workbook to be returned in week 12 (20%) - addresses learning outcomes 4, 5 (iii) Practical skills (measurement of physical activity/components of fitness) (30%) (addresses learning outcome 3), assessed in week 9 Notes: Summative tasks must be attempted, cumulative pass mark. 80% attendance at lectures is expected, attendance at practical sessions is compulsory.