Key topics of the module

In this module the two key topics are the musculoskeletal system and the relationship between physical (in)activity and health.

Musculoskeletal system

This module will focus on basic anatomy, histology, physiology and function of muscles, bone and joints. The main topics that will be addressed include structure and function of muscles, bone and joints as well as their cooperation in movements and the different types of contraction (concentric, eccentric and isometric). Muscle metabolism including energy production and substrate utilisation, and neuromuscular and hormonal control will also be subject of this module. This will serve as a stepping stone to exercise physiology and collaboration of different body systems in physical activity and sport. The relationship between the cardiovascular, pulmonary and musculoskeletal systems will be elucidated, with particular focus on the integration towards physical activity and exercise training

Physical (in)activity and health

In this part of the module the relationship between physical activity and health will be elucidated. The importance of physical activity for (maintenance of) health status of healthy people as well as for those who are at risk for developing disease conditions (e.g. overweight, high body mass index, disturbed glucose metabolism, hypertension etcetera) will be addressed. A number of disease conditions that are beneficially affected by physical activity will be addressed in this module, with emphasis on the patho-physiological processes how physical activity and exercise training influence these disease conditions.

For a better understanding of the aforementioned issues exercise physiology will be taught thoroughly, both the acute response during exercise but also the adaptation to regular physical training. Moreover, the translation of training adaptations to health improvement will be part of the module.

Much attention will be paid to norms and guidelines for recommended quantities and qualities of physical activity and fitness. Several measurement methods, including calorimetry, pedometers, questionnaires, dairies will be assessed on their validity and reliability. We will go into the recommendations on physical activity for improvement and maintenance of health and fitness. It is of importance to know what kinds of physical activity intervention programs are available, but also to assess how valid the effectiveness of these programs is. And do they yield what they claim?

Going more in depth on physical activity in this module substrate and energy utilisation will be discussed and assessed practically.

From a policy point of view it is important to learn about epidemiologic data on physical activity and sports participation behaviour of Western populations, particular of the Dutch. How did this develop through the last century and which factors influence this behaviour. We will go into the impact of alterations of physical activity and sports participation on morbidity and mortality risks as well as on experienced physical and mental health. The students will obtain insight in epidemiological data on physical activity and sports participation data. Also, in this module the determinants of life style behaviour alterations will be studied. Finally, substrate and energy utilisation in rest and during physical activity, both in theory and practice, will be addressed.