KINES 350Exercise Physiology

3 credits · Kinesiology · Penn State

Structure and function of the human body as applied to health, wellness, exercise, and sports. KINES 350 Exercise Physiology (3) Exercise Physiology is a mid- to upper division course that will appeal to students with an interest in human biological adaptation. The course has two primary goals: First, students develop an understanding of the physiological adaptations that occur during and after endurance and resistance exercise. Second, students improve their comprehension of the differences between the acute exercise response and the changes that occur with chronic physical activity (exercise training). A major emphasis is placed on physiological systems as they relate to physical activity, exercise and health, and environmental stress; including, but not limited to, cardiovascular, respiratory, musculoskeletal, renal, neural, and metabolic. These systems are considered singly and in combination with regard to both exercise intensity and exercise duration. The depth of inquiry can range from molecular to organismal (whole-body). In addition, the mechanisms underlying the preventive and protective effects of exercise on human health and performance are discussed. The ability to apply concepts and principles of physiology to situations involving exercise, exercise training and decreased physical activity are highlighted, improving students' abilities to develop and differentiate between paradigms that utilize exercise to improve athletic performance and those that utilize physical activity to promote health. Special topics of applied study may include aging; development; gender; body composition; disease and environmental extremes such as heat, cold, diving and altitude. Students are required to demonstrate via assessment, knowledge and understanding of the acute physiological response to exercise and physiological adaptations to programs of chronic resistance and endurance exercise. Quantitative and analytical skills are emphasized, especially as they pertain to exercise testing and exercise program evaluation. The ability to interpret scientific data as they pertain to exercise physiology is required. Background knowledge in biology, chemistry, physics, and exercise science represent the knowledge base from which the class is built and contributes to the mastery of concepts presented. This course is required for Athletic Training and Kinesiology majors.