Course Syllabus

Sports Medicine: Performance and Fatigue

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Draft syllabus

 

Semester & Location:

Summer Session 1 2023 - DIS Copenhagen

Type & Credits:

Elective Course - 3 credits

Major Disciplines:

Biology, Biomedicine / Biotechnology, Pre-Medicine / Health Science

Prerequisite(s): 

One year of biology and chemistry at the university level

Faculty Member:

Alessandro Pellegrini (Current students please use Canvas Inbox to contact)

Time & Place:

Meetings times: please consult the syllabus

Location: Fi44-Kosmo 405 (Fiolstræde 44, Kosmopol 4th floor, Room 405)

Faculty

Alessandro Pellegrini Photo.jpeg

Alessandro Pellegrini

M.Sc. Sciences and Techniques of Football Athletic Preparation, University of Pisa (2021), M.Sc. Human Posture, University of Rome La Sapienza (2019). M.Sc. Sports Science for Prevention and Rehabilitation, University of Rome Tor Vergata (2017), M.Sc. Sports Science, University of Rome Tor Vergata (2015). Research Assistant, Mobilize Project Intern, University of Southern Denmark (2020). Performance Analyst - Thesis Project - Dansk Boldspil-Union (DBU) (2021). With DIS since 2022.

  
Course Description

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental aspects of human movement, specifically focusing on anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics. By examining these key areas, students will develop a deeper understanding of the intricate mechanisms governing human motion.

The students will gain insights into the physiological and neuromuscular factors contributing to fatigue and its effect on performance. Insights into training periodization strategies and training load analysis will be provided, enabling students to optimize training protocols and enhance performance while minimizing the risk of overtraining and injury.

A part of the course will introduce the field of human motion analysis, with a particular emphasis on posture assessment and dysfunctions. Students will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to critically analyze movement patterns, identify postural dysfunctions, and apply appropriate interventions to optimize performance and reduce the risk of injury. 

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

Explore the dynamic field of sports medicine, taking a holistic approach that can be directly applied in clinical settings. 
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 regimes.
  • Understand the fundamental principles of human biomechanics
  • Gain a general overview of the most reoccurring muscle injuries in sports
  • Apply their knowledge in real-world clinical scenarios effectively.
  • Gain knowledge of the most common laboratory and on-field performance tests.
  • Make a basic exercise regime to improve performance and prevent injury.

  

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
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 I (Block 2) - June 3rd:

For Assignment I, you are required to reflect on what you have learned during the study trip at SDU and prepare a concise presentation (maximum 10 minutes) on a topic related to your interests.

You will be divided into groups and present your findings to the class.

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

You will be graded complete/incomplete.

 

Assignment II (Block 3)

Assignment II entails creating a corrective exercise prescription for a client.

You will be grouped into pairs.

Within these groups, you will collaborate and conduct anamnesis and postural screening tests on each other. Based on the screening results, you will recommend one corrective exercise for each individual in the group.

The written exercise description should include the following details:

  1. Description of the exercise, supported by scientific literature.
  2. Purpose of the exercise.
  3. Demonstration illustrating how to perform the exercise.
  4. Exercise volume, including intensity, repetitions, sets, and frequency.
  5. Brief discussion explaining why these particular exercises were chosen over others.
  6. Possible variations and modifications that can be made to the proposed exercise.

Final project

As the final project, you will present a full case report. You can pick one of the four cases provided. This report should function as a complete and structured exercise program. It will build upon the assignments you completed during the course.

  • Exercise-program (max 3 pages)
    • create a complete program which counts in findings, physiological needs, and challenges in relations to the injury.
    • Must include: Corrective exercises, strength training, relevant cardio training and neuromuscular training.
    • The exercise program has to be realistic (will my case-person be able to complete).
  • Include a short discussion of why these exercises are chosen over others, with reference to scientific literature. (max 1 page)
  • List of references.

 

Grading

Test (block 1)

20%

Assignments (Block 2 and 3: 15% each)

30%

Final Project

40%

Participation

10%

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

 

Academic Regulations  

Please make sure to read the Academic Regulations on the DIS website. There you will find regulations on: 

 

DIS - Study Abroad in Scandinavia - www.DISabroad.org

Course Summary:

Date Details Due