Athlete 101: The Science of Training

Course Description

Ever wonder...
Why you do high or low repetitions of weights?
Why there are work and rest intervals? Dynamic vs. Static warm ups?
When and what you should eat before, during and post exercise?
What exercise advice is based on myth and fact?
This course aims to demystify, understand, and create a basic solid foundation of an aerobic or strength training program.

Learn the fundamental principles that are the basis of exercise training. Exercise is a perfect example of the body under stress and how it adapts. The course will cover a discussion of the basic organ system adaptions as well as how physiology sets the foundation of a training plan. Main themes in training will be introduced and demystified on fueling the athlete, equipment, stretches, athletic testing, aerobic, and strength training programs. Each class will have a lecture/ discussion as well as an interactive exercise discussion or demonstration. Students will do group presentations, literature searches, and a final project of creating a basic weekly exercise plan.

The main objective is to see that exercise training is individual, creative, adaptive, and scientific. Learn how to use/access sources to create an exercise plan or check if an exercise program is backed by valid evidence.

Upon completion of the course students will be able to create a basic exercise plan. In addition students will have fundamental knowledge as to why exercise requires time intervals between bouts, how to look for adaption in both aerobic and anaerobic (strength) systems, types of food to eat and avoid for exercise and recovery, and why your genetics matter.

Prerequisites: A strong interest in understanding why we have protocols to meet exercise/performance goals. A passion for understanding the human body and a creative mind to link the science and art of training.