One of the main themes in exercise physiology and sports nutrition is the energy utilization of the body (mainly skeletal muscle) to sustain a certain type of physical activity. This course will focus on the energy systems involved in sport performance and how exogenous and endogenous energy sources can be used to modulate substrate utilization and performance. The course contains four cases in which it will be discussed how endogenous energy sources can limit performance, how exogenous energy sources can support performance, and whether high endogenous stores or exogenous energy provision may limit training adaptations. Topics that will be addressed are the energy systems, the role of carbohydrates in exercise performance and recovery, the role of fat in exercise performance, the role of energy intake and hydration, and how to measure substrate utilization during exercise.

Knowledge and comprehension

At the end of the course the student should understand:

• The endogenous energy systems and the limiting energy system in relation to different sports and training adaptation.
• How nutrition can impact substrate utilization.
• The use of carbohydrates before, during, and after exercise.
• How nutrition can be used to improve performance.
• Methodology commonly used in relation to substrate utilization and endurance type activities, including VO2max, indirect calorimetry, and (glucose) tracer methodology.

Applying knowledge and understanding

At the end of the course students should be capable of applying the above-mentioned knowledge:

• Conduct measurements of substrate utilization and process data.
• Translate scientific literature into practical recommendations.
• Apply academic skills like: critical reading, reviewing, and writing; argumentation.

Making judgements

At the end of the course the student should be capable of:

• Critically evaluate nutritional intervention programs to improve sports performance and judge the quality of measurements and instruments used.
• Summarize and critically review literature (critical reading).
• Identify opportunities to improve sports performance through optimal balance between training and nutrition, with a focus on nutrition as a fuel.

Communication

At the end of the course the student should be able to:

• Write scientific reports.
• Effectively and professionally function in multi-disciplinary and international (student) teams

·       Self-reflect on skills/competences needed (to improve) in the study program, as well as on goals/plan after finishing the program

Learning skills

At the end of the course the student should be capable of:

• Collaborate and discuss knowledge in a project team.
• Independently study international literature related to human movement performance and (sports) nutrition.
• Searching and referencing scientific literature.
• Review and comment on a scientific report written by a peer.
• Identify personal (learning) objectives, strengths, challenges, and being able to reflect on these.