PHYT2001 Exercise and Musculoskeletal Physiology

2017

4.5

1 x 50-minute lecture weekly
1 x 110-minute tutorial weekly
1 x 8-hour independent study weekly

1 of HLTH1004, MMED2931

In this topic students will learn fundamental concepts of basic and applied exercise physiology for the delivery of exercise (prescription) interventions in normal healthy individuals. Acute and chronic adaptations to exercise and methods of training of the neuromuscular, cardiovascular and pulmonary systems will inform students of approaches for exercise prescription for improvement of muscular strength/hypertrophy, endurance and motor function. Students will develop an understanding of neural adaptations to exercise including use-dependent neuroplasticity. The contribution of peripheral and central mechanisms to neuromuscular fatigue will be explored and debated relative to appropriate exercise prescription. The benefits and rationale of exercise for positive aging in older adults will be explored together with basic psychological aspects related to motivation and adherence to exercise regimes.

The aim of this topic is to provide specific knowledge of basic and applied exercise and musculoskeletal physiology relative to principles of exercise prescription for normal/apparently healthy people.

At the completion of the topic students will be able to:

• Describe the acute and chronic effects of aerobic and anaerobic exercise on the neuromuscular, pulmonary and cardiovascular systems.

• Describe the general principles and procedures for exercise testing and prescription in endurance and resistance training modalities.

• Demonstrate knowledge of the evidence-base for methods of exercise prescription on muscle, cardiovascular and neurological function in normal populations.

• Discuss mechanisms underlying peripheral and central fatigue in the neuromuscular system

• Describe the effects of exercise on peripheral and central (cognitive and motor) functioning to promote positive aging in older adults.

• Outline the psychosocial barriers to adherence to long term exercise regimes.