Physiology of Exercise

Recommended Prerequisites

Not applicable.

Teaching Methods

The curricular unit consists of theoretical sessions and theoretical-practical sessions. In practical lessons students will have the opportunity to conduct assessments of the physical condition using practical field situations.

Learning Outcomes

It is intended that students are able understand:

Energy sources and all the major mechanisms involved in its supply to the body, whether in rest situations or in exercise situations.

The anaerobic and the aerobic system, as well as the exercises included in each of them.

The cardiovascular system, its main functions and its major adaptations to stress.

The type of adaptations that occur in our bodies when we are under extreme environmental stress.

How to  assess different energy pathways.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

Energy for physical activities;

Energy transfer during exercises;

Measuring the human energy expenditure;

Human energy expenditure during rest and physical activity;

Individual differences and measurement of energy capacities;

Aerobic systems for energy delivery and energy use;

Pulmonary structure and function;

Gas exchange and transport;

Dynamics of pulmonary ventilation;

The cardiovascular system;

Cardiovascular regulation and integration;

Functional capacity of the cardiovascular system;

Skeletal muscle: structure and function;

Enhancing the energy transfer capacity;

Training for anaerobic and aerobic power;

Muscular strength;

Exercise performance and environmental stress;

Exercising at medium and high altitude;

Sport diving;

Assessment of energy pathways;

Direct and indirect protocols, maximal and sub maximal protocols.

Head Lecturer(s)

Amândio Manuel Cupido Santos

Assessment Methods

Final
Exam: 100.0%

Continuous
Two mid-term tests: 100.0%

Bibliography

William D. McArdle, Frank I Kattch, Victor L. Katch (2010). Exercise Physiology – Nutrition, Energy, and Human Performance (seven Edition)