This module will provide a comprehensive introduction to biochemistry princibles in realtion to physical acitivty, exercise and sport performance. Specifically, this module covers: the structure and function of important biomolecules including carbohydrates, fats, proteins and nucleic acids; the structure and function of organelles; the biochemical characteristics of muscle fibres; the structure and function of muscle fibres; membrane transport; proteins as enzymes, receptors, antibodies; major pathways of energy metabolism and how these are regulated; the mobilisation and utilisation of fuels for exercise and the hormonal responses to exercise; examples of important techniques in biochemistry
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module, students should be able to:
Demonstrate knowledge of a number of topics in biochemistry and cell physiology, for example: how proteins are formed, and give examples of functional proteins; sources of carbohydrate and the processes by which carbohydrates are used as fuel in exercise; sources of fat and the processes by which fats are used as fuel in exercise; muscle structure and the processes involved in muscle contraction; absorption of carbohydrates and the importance of optimum absorption and digestion in exercise.
Apply the biochemistry principles to ‘real world’ scenarios, for example, in public health settings considering obesity and sedentary behaviour, and in sporting settings such as sprinting, middle distance and marathon running, and weightlifting.