Module Directory

This module builds upon the foundational knowledge of sport science by focusing on the applied practice of five core sub-disciplines: physiology, biomechanics, performance analysis, psychology, and nutrition. Students will critically engage with contemporary techniques used in applied sport settings and develop practical competencies through experiential learning. Real-world case studies, hands-on workshops, and practitioner-led sessions will equip students with the skills to evaluate and enhance athletic performance in applied environments.

The aims of this module are:

• Bridge the gap between theory and practice by enabling students to apply sport science principles in realistic performance contexts.


• Develop practical skills, decision-making, and interdisciplinary thinking across physiology, biomechanics, performance analysis, psychology, and nutrition.

By the end of this module, students will be expected to be able to:

1. Explain and appraise key principles and methodologies within each core sport science sub-discipline (physiology, biomechanics, performance analysis, psychology, and nutrition) as they relate to applied practice.


2. Design, conduct, and critically interpret data collection using industry-standard techniques to address performance questions in sport settings.


3. Analyse and evaluate sport performance interventions through an interdisciplinary perspective, drawing on contemporary research and evidence-based practice.


4. Communicate and justify sport science findings and recommendations effectively to athletes, coaches, and interdisciplinary performance teams, demonstrating clarity, professionalism, and critical insight.

Indicative syllabus content:

• Physiology:
  
  
  
  • Applied monitoring of training load, recovery, and fatigue.
  
  
  • Fitness testing protocols and performance profiling.
  
  
  • Periodisation and adaptation principles in practice.
  
  
  
  


• Biomechanics:
  
  
  
  • Use of motion capture and force plates in performance assessment.
  
  
  • Applied gait and movement analysis in sport settings.
  
  
  • Biomechanical interpretation of jumping, sprinting, and lifting mechanics.
  
  
  
  


• Performance Analysis:
  
  
  
  • Applied notational and video analysis using software.
  
  
  • KPI identification and tactical trends in team sports.
  
  
  • Creating feedback reports for athlete and coach use.
  
  
  
  


• Psychology:
  
  
  
  • Mental skills training in applied sport contexts (e.g., goal setting, imagery, self-talk).
  
  
  • Motivation and confidence in practice.
  
  
  • Pre-performance routines and psychological profiling.
  
  
  
  


• Nutrition:
  
  
  
  • Practical application of sport-specific nutrition strategies.
  
  
  • Nutrition tracking, energy availability, and fuelling for training and competition.
  
  
  • Interdisciplinary case studies (e.g., RED-S, weight cutting, endurance fuelling).
  
  
  
  

Inclusive Learning and Teaching Methods:

The module will employ a blended approach to ensure accessibility for all students, including online learners and those with disabilities:

• Diverse Formats: Lectures will be delivered live (with recordings provided) and supplemented with subtitled videos, visual aids (e.g., PowerPoint), and interactive quizzes to cater to varied learning preferences (e.g., auditory, visual).
• Universal Design for Learning (UDL): Materials will be accessible (e.g., screen-reader-friendly documents, alt-text for images) and shared via Moodle.
• Structured Support: Clear, scaffolded instructions will be provided for all tasks, with the options of online or in-person consultation to address questions.
• Mental Health/Neurodiversity: Time-limited assessments (e.g., exams) will offer adjusted conditions (e.g., extra time, quiet rooms) where needed.

Proactive Measures:

• Early communication with the Student Wellbeing and Inclusivity Service to tailor accommodations (e.g., transcripts, assistive tech).
• Anonymous feedback channels to identify and address emerging accessibility issues.

Teaching Format

This module will be delivered via:

• One 2-hour seminar per week (applied case discussions, group work).
• The module will run in domain-specific blocks such as:
• Physiology: 4x2-hour applied testing labs.
• Biomechanics: 4x2-hour practical sessions with motion capture or force plate equipment.
• Performance Analysis: 4x2-hour sessions on live and retrospective coding of match footage.

Student Expectations:

• Pre-reading and pre-task preparation for practicals and seminars.
• Active participation in practical sessions and group tasks.
• One ten-minute applied presentation at the end of the module (e.g., case report, practitioner simulation).