James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2002

SP1001:03

Introduction to Fitness and Exercise Biology

Townsville

HECS Band 1

36 hours lectures, 15 hours practicals. Semester 1.

Staff: Dr M Crowe, Dr A Leicht.

Physiological and metabolic adaptations to exercise. Structural and functional organisation of skeletal muscle; cardiopulmonary adaptations to exercise; exercise metabolism; physiology and biochemistry of fatigue and recovery; foods and nutrition; exercise adaptations to environmental extremes such as altitude and high heat and humidity. Fundamentals of fitness and exercise training including flexibility, strength and aerobic training.

Learning Objectives:

  1. describe the metabolic and physiological adaptations to exercise;
  2. describe the fundamental components of fitness;
  3. describe the role of body systems in exercise;
  4. explain the basic energy systems utilised by the body;
  5. explain the basic principles of nutrition;
  6. outline common exercise modalities utilised in the fitness industry;
  7. describe the effect of environmental extremes on exercise performance.

Assessment by final end-of-semester examination (50%); on-course assessment (50%).