Course content

Successful application of exercise in medicine is based on knowledge of how specific physical activities interact with the mechanisms of disease, and how exercise training programs are implemented in standard clinical practice. This includes basic insight in the manifestations and mechanisms of disease, as well as in the roles and working procedures related to patients and health professionals in the context of prevention, treatment and rehabilitation. The course focuses on common metabolic, respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, in which exercise is recommended. It also discusses the spectrum of healthy and pathologic responses to exercise in athletes and healthy individuals.

Learning outcome

Knowledge

The candidate

• has a fundamental understanding of the manifestations and mechanisms of selected common diseases, how they are affected by exercise testing and training, and the associated benefits and risks
• has basic knowledge on how to evaluate adaptations to exercise training in medicine
• has advanced knowledge on exercise guidelines and how to involve patients in exercise training

Skills

The candidate

• can design, prescribe, and supervise evidence-based training programs for specific target groups and individuals
• can identify persons requiring special precautions for safe exercise testing and training

Learning methods and activities

The course is a series of weekly seminars based on lectures, teamwork sessions and practical workshops, requiring active participation from the students. Teams are created by the faculty at the beginning of the course and run for the whole semester. In the teamwork sessions, the students will develop a training program targeted for the case, including relevant information on the specific health condition and special concerns, e.g. regarding safety and follow-up, with reference to guidelines and scientific articles.

Compulsory assignments

• Oral presentations (group assignments)
• Written group assignment

Specific conditions

Required previous knowledge

As for admission to the MSc in Physical Activity and Health. The course is reserved for students enrolled to the MSc in Physical Activity and Health.

Course materials

The students will get references to articles and other learning materials for their preparation one week before each seminar.