This module introduces the learner to various practices in exercise prescription and programme design. The theoretical aspects of this module centre on the need for disease prevention in the general population. The learner becomes familiar with issues that impact on an individual’s health and wellbeing. Furthermore, the learner understands the numerous exercise modalities and how the prescription of exercise can potentially impact upon a subject’s health and wellbeing. The programme design element of the module allows for the prescribed exercise modality to be as effective as possible at achieving health goals and communicating these factors to clients. Having completed this module learners have the ability to screen subjects, perform detailed needs analysis, and be competent in prescribing exercise programmes to meet the various health needs of the general population
Content
Topic 1 Assessing risk using questionnaires and general health screening in sedentary and activity populations. Current recommendations for balanced physical activity and health guidelines. Planning and evaluating physical activity programmes (Needs, planning, implementation, evaluation).Topic 2 Physical Interventions for specific populations Gender differences, Obese and Overweight individuals, Older adults, special populations, adapted populations.Topic 3 Principles of Assessment for special populationsMeasuring physical activity, questionnaires, HR (heat rate) testing and HR Reserve. Basic physical tests relating to the components of fitness. Screening and testing sick or unhealthy individuals.Topic 4 Training Individuals, FITT principles and exercise considerations.Initial values, Inter-individual variability, Diminishing returns, Reversibility, components of fitness and management of exercise intensity.Topic 5 Critically analysing exercise programmesCommercially available exercise programmes will be critiqued for validity.Topic 6 Programme DesignMode, Intensity, Duration, Frequency, Individuals with learning difficulties.Topic 7 Exercise prescription for special populations – weight loss, flexibility, strength, at risk populations, older adults, heart disease patients, diabetes patients.
Beginning
Case Studies and Risk StratificationScreening and Risk Stratification: Assessing the Components of Fitness; Goal Setting; Exercise Prescription
Basic Principles
Principles of Training; Type (Mode); Frequency and Time (Duration)Intensity; Exercise Prescription by Heart Rate; Exercise Prescription by Perceived Exertion; Exercise Prescription by Workload
Prescription
Weight loss - Energy Balance; Weight Management; Exercise Prescription for Fat Loss; Exercise Prescription for Muscular Strength and Flexibility; Exercise Prescription for the Older Adult; Exercise Prescription for Heart Disease; Exercise Prescription for Diabetes Mellitus; Exercise Prescription for Other Special Cases (Peripheral Arterial Disease;Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease; Hypertension; Pregnancy; Children)
Methods used to achieve the module learning outcomes will include lectures, tutorials, laboratory practicals, interpretation of data, case studies, problem-solving exercises, video presentations, self-directed learning and computer-based learning.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Formal Examination | 60 |
| Other Assessment(s) | 40 |