6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL
Undergraduate - Unit
Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.
Faculty
Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences
Organisational Unit
Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food
Chief examiner(s)
Coordinator(s)
Unit guides
Synopsis
This unit is focused on students' developing knowledge, skills, and competencies to critically evaluate current developments in sport and exercise nutrition, targeting both health and sports performance outcomes in a variety of populations. The scientific disciplines of exercise physiology, biochemistry and immunology will be emphasised as students critically evaluate the underlying evidence supporting benchmark nutritional guidelines and recommendations given to individuals/groups partaking in exercise. Laboratory sessions will provide practical experience of various anthropometrical, nutritional and hydration assessment techniques; alongside applying knowledge of area specific theories into practice through a kitchen laboratory session. Particular reference to the roles and responsibilities of the sport and exercise nutrition expert when working in multi-disciplinary teams will be emphasised.
Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this unit, students should be able to:
- Evaluate the role of macro- and micro-nutrients in human energy transfer systems active during different types of exercise, and recognise the nutritional implications;
- Appraise the effect exercise and the environment have on various body systems and body composition;
- Evaluate nutritional and hydration assessment techniques in sport and exercise;
- Assess nutritional, hydration and exercise requirements for active individuals performing at different sporting activities and levels and develop appropriate exercise and nutrition regimes;
- Critically appraise the evidence base to justify food, fluid, supplement and other management strategies for improving sport and exercise performance.
Assessment
- Critical Essay (2000 words) 30%
- Laboratory Practical Reports (3 x 500 words) 20%
- Case Study (1500 words) 30%
- Oral Presentation (20 minutes) 20%
Workload requirements
12 x 2 hour per week lectures/tutorials on campus, 12 x 2 hour per week seminars on campus (delivered twice, seminar groups A and B), 3 x 3 hour practical sessions (physiology, hydration, kitchen lab) - (delivered twice, seminar groups A and B).
36 hours self-study and formative/summative assessment related work.
See also Unit timetable information