PG Cert Sport and Exercise Science

Leeds Beckett University

Investigate the principles underpinning the function and operation of a range of biomechanical equipment. This module covers key aspects of kinematics, kinetics and other biomechanical techniques, such as electromyography. You'll grasp the core concepts of these techniques and evaluate how biomechanical methods can be used to study motion in a variety of contexts. Through data collection and analysis, you'll reflect on both traditional and contemporary approaches to research, theory and practice in sport and exercise biomechanics.

Examine the evidence supporting advanced exercise testing and prescription methods. You'll discuss technological advancements and their application to sports physiology with the aim to enhance elite performance. This module provides the theoretical knowledge and critical skills for you to evaluate and apply such methods within the field of sports physiology.

Gain an in-depth and critical understanding of the physiological principles underpinning strength and conditioning practice. You'll evaluate the physiological demands of sporting events, assess and measure key physiological capacities, and design training prescriptions to support athletic development. This module emphasises the importance of evidence-based practice and the acquisition of essential practical skills for strength and conditioning professionals.

Engage with a range of emerging issues and trends shaping contemporary sport psychology. By critically evaluating key psychological theories, concepts, and principles, you'll deepen your understanding of human behaviour within sporting environments. You'll also develop the skills needed to critically review research literature and effectively communicate psychological insights to both academic and professional audiences.

Study the general principles, concepts and underpinning theory in nutrition and biochemistry for the development of performance nutrition strategies. During the module, there is strong emphasis on developing applied practitioners through formative and summative activities. These activities will enable you to demonstrate the ability to understand and apply current sports nutrition theory to practice in a variety of contexts.

Develop an understanding of the biomechanics of human gait. This module will enable you to gain critical knowledge of normal, pathological and competitive gait. You'll improve your knowledge of the internal and external factors that can affect gait, such as fatigue, footstrike patterns, footwear-surface interaction and ageing. Finally, you'll complete a range of laboratory-based activities to observe human gait and to assess common biomechanical methods used in gait analysis.

Study the mechanisms that connect chronic exercise training and physical inactivity with health and disease. You'll gain new insight and an appreciation of the importance of physical activity in preventing and treating cardiometabolic disorders. You'll achieve further development through reflection and critical awareness of contemporary issues and analytical techniques used in disease management and research. Upon completion, you'll have a greater understanding of the symbiotic relationship between high quality research and optimal practice in health and disease management.

Explore how exercise influences behaviour, mental health, and psychological well-being. You'll consider both the positive effects of exercise- such as improved mood, cognitive function, and mental health conditions – and the potential negative consequences, including exercise dependence. By the end of the module, you'll be able to critically apply behaviour change theories to design interventions that target priority health challenges.

Critically evaluate the impact of a variety of nutritional strategies. Drawing on contemporary research, you'll explore the complex relationship between dietary manipulation strategies and specific ergogenic aids or food supplements on metabolism, sports performance and health. By completing an experimental task, you'll devise valid and reliable methods to test a hypothesis of the potential impact of dietary manipulation or supplement on performance. During this process, you'll also learn to work collaboratively as you interact effectively with other group members.