Course summary

The course is about the scientific analysis of how the human body moves, exercises and performs sport. It is about understanding the sciences of biomechanics, physiology and psychology to provide the theoretical knowledge and it about applying this knowledge to practical situations. Sport science is concerned with applying science to maximise the performance of an individual athlete or team, whereas exercise science is concerned with applying science to improve health and well-being through exercise. A sport scientist might design a training programme to increase a distance runners’ race speed or improve a basketball teams’ ability to increase the tempo of a game. An exercise scientist, on the other hand, might design a training programme to aid weight loss or improve muscle strength so that an individual can continue to perform daily tasks without becoming tired.