Course Objectives

The course aims to provide students with an introduction to human anatomy and physiology, considered in particular in the context of physical activity and training theory.
Students will gain an understanding of the basic concepts and theories used in anatomy, physiology and training theory, and will also acquire knowledge of the basic principles for training and methods for improving sports performance.

Course Description

Sports biology
• Cell biology (structure and function, cell metabolism, protein synthesis)
• Anatomy (the skeleton and skeletal muscles - structure and functions, functional anatomy)
• Muscle tissue (structure and functions)
• Nervous system (structure and function, nerves and muscles, motory functions)
• Circulatory system (the heart and the arteries and veins - structure and functions, the blood and gas exchange, the circulatory system at work and rest)
• Respiratory system (the respiratory organs - structure and functions, pulmonary ventilation and gas exchange, regulation of respiration)
• Energy metabolism (energy metabolism at work and rest, energy sources during muscle work, aerobic and anaerobic energy-release, optimal oxygen absorption, anaerobic threshold and exploitation.
Training theory
• Training forms: warm-up and stretching exercises, flexibility, coordination, technique training, strength, flexibility, speed, endurance training and mental training.
• Methods and principles of training
• Versatility/specialisation
• Planning training
• Growth and development
• Sports injuries

Learning Methods

Roughly 105 lectures spread over the academic year.
The course consists of both practical and theoretical instruction, which alternates between lectures, practical activities in the sports hall and outdoors, dissection in the laboratory, student presentations, debates and case-based and group work. In addition, the lectures will be supplemented by videos, slide shows and the use of CD-Roms. Physiology, anatomy and training methods are integrated naturally in order to provide students with an overall understanding of the subject material. Guidance and supervision will be given to the whole student group, and there will also be obligatory supervision of the separate student groups when the rough drafts of their reports have been prepared.

Assessment Methods

An individual 4-hour written exam in the autumn semester counts for 40% of the final grade. A written group project in the spring semester counts for 60%. In order to successfully complete the course both the written examination and the group project must receive passing marks.

Minor adjustments may occur during the academic year, subject to the decision of the Dean