Physical Activity with Special Populations

Description

Overview: The broad aim of this class is to equip students with the knowledge and skills to with variety of potential clients with special exercise needs. This will be achieved through the study of the aetiology, pathophysiology, signs and symptoms, and treatments of a range of cardiac, vascular and pulmonary conditions related to inactivity or physical activity. Students will learn to adapt knowledge gained in previous modules in Physical Activity for Health for both prevention of disease and for treatment regimes such as cardiac rehabilitation. With increasing rates of disability and disease associated with inactive lifestyles, there is a need for professionals who can advise and support people with such special exercise needs. The course will allow students to progress towards professional qualifications such as the British Association for Cardiac Rehabilitation’s Phase IV Exercise Instructor qualification. Syllabus: The aetiology, pathophysiology, signs and symptoms, and treatments (focusing on physical activity) of the following conditions or specialist populations will be covered: (i) Cardiac conditions such as hypertension, heart disease and cardiac rehabilitation. (ii) Vascular conditions such as peripheral arterial disease, cerebrovascular disease and stroke. (iii) Pulmonary conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. (iv) Metabolic conditions such as diabetes mellitus. (v) Bone and joint conditions such as osteoporosis and arthritis. (vi) Cancers and the immune system. (vii) Mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. (viii) Neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis. (ix) Musculo-skeletal and soft tissue injuries. (x) Risk factors for metabolic syndrome, including hyperlipidermia and obesity. (xi) Adapted physical activity (physical and learning disability) In addition, the course will cover issues arising in exercise referral and working with allied health professions. Learning Outcomes: Having completed this module the student will be able to: (i) Distinguish between and discuss a range of cardiac, vascular and pulmonary conditions related to inactivity or physical activity; (ii) Evaluate the usefulness of physical activity as a prevention strategy or treatment intervention for specific cardiac, vascular and pulmonary conditions; (iii) Select appropriate exercise interventions for specific case studies; (iv) Critically review the research evidence on prescription of physical activity for treatment of specific cardiac, vascular and pulmonary conditions. Assessment: Formative: (i) Weekly short answer questions will be available online (through VLE) (feedback will be score and correct answers), (ii) Weekly tutorials will provide opportunity to discuss material and reading tasks. (iii) Peer assessment of presentation. Summative: (i) A 1 hour examination consisting of short answer and essay style questions (50%) - end of semester (addresses learning outcomes 1-3). (ii) Presentation on physical activity as a preventive strategy or treatment for a specific condition or population (50%) – in week 6 or 9 or 12 (addresses learning outcomes 3-4) Notes: Summative tasks must be attempted, cumulative pass mark. 80% attendance at lectures is expected, attendance at practical sessions is compulsory to allow submission of summative assessments.