Course information
Exercise Science examines sport from a scientific perspective. It is predominantly a theory based course. The course looks at performance in sport, at a cellular level, the function of muscles and bones, through to factors that affect performance such as training techniques and sport psychology.
Post-school pathways
Do you enjoy or are you good at Physical Education? (pdf, 110kb)
Students will find this course useful if they are considering courses in nursing, physiotherapy and associated medical/health areas or teaching.
Workload expectation
As a general guide to success in this course four hours per week of additional study on top of regular classes is expected.
Course pattern
Available as a Minor or Major
Suggested Minor course
Semester | Unit |
|---|---|
1 | Anatomy and Physiology of the Human Body |
2 | Factors Effecting Performance |
Suggested Major course
Semester | Unit |
|---|---|
1 | Anatomy and Physiology of the Human Body |
2 | Factors Effecting Performance |
3 | Preparation for Training and Performance |
4 | The Body in Motion |
Unit descriptions
Anatomy and Physiology of the Human Body
Students will examine and explore the structure and function of musculoskeletal and cardiorespiratory systems and analyse how the systems adapt and adjust to the demands of physical activity. Students will investigate these systems from a cellular to systemic level allowing them to develop and understanding of how each system acts as an enabler or barrier to physical performance.
Factors Effecting Performance
Students will examine the physiological, psychological and behavioural theories that influence athletic performance. Students will be introduced to factors affecting performance and develop basic insights into the science underpinning the management of sports injuries and athletic mindset. Students will examine and explore how the extent and intensity of sports participation relates to the incidence of sports injuries and explore a range of technical and scientific approaches for maintaining the physical and mental well-being of athletes.
Preparation for Training and Performance
Students investigate the factors that influence sports performance. Students will critically analyse the effectiveness of training and nutritional guidelines and how they contribute to the improvement of athletic performance. Students will explore a variety of training and nutritional principles to develop an understanding of the varying needs of community target groups and elite athletes.
The Body in Motion
Students will explore the biomechanical and physiological principles involved in analysing and interpreting the body in motion and energy production. Students will apply a variety of methods used to analyse movement patterns and examine the physiological adaptations to exercise. Students will investigate the biomechanical and physiological factors that influence athletic performance.