Course Syllabus

Faculty

Alessandro Pellegrini Ph.D. in Exercise and Sport Science, University of Milan “La Statale” (2026). Research focuses on football injury mechanisms, sports biomechanics, and injury prevention, with particular emphasis on hamstring and ACL injuries. Experience with video analysis, 3D motion analysis, markerless motion capture, and performance analysis. Visiting researcher at the Sport Orthopedic Research Center – Copenhagen (2025). Previous academic and applied experience includes projects with the University of Southern Denmark and the Danish Football Federation. With DIS since 2022.

  
Course Description

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to sports medicine, with a specific focus on biomechanics, human movement analysis, and injury prevention.

Students will learn how movement patterns can be observed, measured, and interpreted through different approaches, including postural assessment, laboratory- and field-based testing, and sports injury video analysis.

Building on current research in sports injury prevention, the course will also introduce students to the epidemiology and aetiology of sports injuries. Particular attention will be given to common injuries in sport, such as hamstring injuries and ACL injuries, and to the interaction between athlete characteristics, sport-specific demands, fatigue, biomechanics, and match situations.

Throughout the course, there will be the opportunity to apply theoretical concepts to practical situations in class and to reinforce the understanding of the subject matter during school trips. 

NOTE: There will be a physical component to this course where the students will be expected to run and lift weights.

 

Expected Learning Outcomes

This course explores the dynamic field of sports medicine through a holistic and applied approach, connecting theoretical knowledge with practical examples from sport, clinical settings, performance testing, and injury prevention.

Upon completion of this course, students should be able to:

• Gain insights into metabolic pathways involved in energy production during exercise
• Understand the adaptations of muscle tissue to various exercise regimens.
• Understand the fundamental principles of human biomechanics
• Gain a general overview of the most recurring injuries in sports
• Apply their knowledge effectively in real-world clinical scenarios.
• Gain knowledge of the most common laboratory and on-field performance tests.

  

Required Readings

• E-textbook: McVicar and Clancy: Physiology and Anatomy for Nurses and Healthcare Practitioners: A Homeostatic Approach, Third Edition (P&A)
• Physical Textbook: McArdle WD, Katch FI, Katch VL: Exercise Physiology: Nutrition, Energy and Human Performance. 8th edition. (EP)
• Additional Readings will be placed on Canvas

 

Approach to Teaching

The course will be taught with a dynamic hands-on approach where the students are expected to participate in an interactive way. Clinical and lab tests will be applied to students by students and instructors.

Not all literature for each lecture will be covered in class. However, it will serve as a foundation for the discussions in class.

In order to excel in this course, you should have a basic understanding of, and feel comfortable with, anatomy and physiology concepts that are typically covered in an introductory course.

 

Evaluation and Grading

Test (Block 1)	20%
Assignment (Block 2)	30%
Final Project	40%
Participation	10%

In this course, students' performance will be assessed through various means, including participation, tests, assignments, and a final presentation.

 

Test (Block 1)

At the conclusion of Block 1, there will be a test lasting between 30 minutes to an hour.

The test will primarily focus on the theoretical material covered during Block 1.

It will consist of a combination of short answer and multiple-choice questions.

The test will be conducted in the classroom.

 

Assignment (Block 2)

You will be divided into groups. Each group must find and review 1-2 scientific papers related to their final project topic.

Prepare a concise presentation (max 20 min) summarizing the findings from your selected papers. Focus on identifying key variables that are important for the kinematic analysis and explain how these variables can be measured or analyzed.

Following the presentation, you will have 5 minutes to address any questions from your classmates.

You will be graded complete/incomplete.

 

Final project

Students will form groups and present a comprehensive case report (written and practical). You will have the option to choose one of the four motion analysis tools provided later in the course.

The report should be a thorough biomechanical analysis accompanied by reflections and suggestions based on the class lessons. (around 20 minutes per group).

To create the graphic report, utilize anamnesis data and motion analysis Apps. Develop a complete program considering the findings, physiological needs, and associated challenges. List some references.

There will also be a brief discussion with the rest of the class reflecting on the results and the methodology used.

Class participation

covers the following areas:

• Attendance
• Level of preparation and ability to answer questions asked in class
• Involvement in class and group discussions

 

Laptops in Class

You may use your laptop for note‐taking or fact‐checking. Usage not related to the class or our subject is unacceptable. We will rely on your integrity and your respect for our objectives. If you are using your laptop for reasons not related to class, your class participation grade will be reduced significantly and you will be asked not to bring your laptop.

A good learning environment requires as little disturbance as possible, and that everyone is present, prepared, and participating. Out of respect for both faculty and fellow students, we expect you to be ready when the class starts and to participate in the full duration of the class without leaving the classroom. Restroom visits and other errands are to be completed before and after class