Aims

This module aims to provide a foundation in the principles of strength and conditioning and to understand how adaptations in muscle structure and function can improve human performance.

There is an emphasis on understanding the fundamentals of muscle physiology, principles of human movement and training program design. This module will enable the student to study and understand key concepts of strength and conditioning and implement this knowledge into a training and rehabilitation program. Students will gain insight into the role of the strength and conditioning specialist in a range of different sports and populations.

Outline Of Syllabus

On successful completion of this module students will be able to understand:

•       Anatomical basis of skeletal muscle
•       Force – length relationship
•       Force – velocity curve
•       Neuromuscular control
•       Hypertrophy
•       Muscle damage and recovery
•       Molecular adaptations to training.
•       Training program design
•       Integration of S&C in special populations
•       Rehabilitation

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

The module will be structured into 6 themes whereby specific content will be covered related to this theme to enable the student to fully explore within the confines of the theme. Structured guided learning will support lectures whereby students will explore key focused research papers alongside guided supplemental tasks/questions designed by the lecturer. This will encourage students to explore independently in greater depth. These sessions will be further supplemented with formative research seminars where key papers designed to facilitate students coursework submission will be explored and industry expert videos will be recorded and added deliver expert practical S&C insight. Practical sessions will be conducted present-in-person to provide students with opportunities to learn techniques, methods of assessment and monitoring in a strength and conditioning gym. Defined hours for reflective learning will promote the student to evaluate their learning so far and identify weaknesses that need to be followed up by further reading. Time has also been specified for assessment preparation.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The case study report will provide students with the opportunity to critique, appraise and interpret pertinent strength and conditioning research within an applied context. The examination will test students’ factual knowledge and application of knowledge from material covered throughout the module.