Extreme Exercise Physiology 15 credits

About the course

The course covers physiological adaptations to high physical demands in sports and exercise. It also examines the effects of exposure and physical exertion in extreme environments, particularly in Arctic conditions. Topics include physiological adaptations in the cardiorespiratory system, nervous system, musculature, and energy metabolism. The consequences of exposure to extreme environmental factors (e.g., cold, heat, high altitude, wind, and water) and prolonged physical exertion, such as ultradistance events, are discussed, including the impact of age, gender, and nutritional status.

Module 1 – 5 Credits
The first module covers basic exercise physiology and environmental physiology, and their relation to high training and competition loads in extreme environments.

Module 2 – 5 Credits
The second module has a more practical orientation, addressing exercise physiology tests used to evaluate physical capacity and exertion. It also includes theoretical and practical risk awareness related to extreme training loads and exposure to extreme environments.

Module 3 – 2.5 Credits
The third module focuses on preparing for and completing ultradistance events during winter. It covers exercise physiological training principles during the preparation process as well as risk awareness during ultradistance events.

Module 4 – 2.5 Credits
The fourth module addresses common sports injuries related to ultradistance activities and preventive measures to reduce their occurrence. Additionally, it covers risks and consequences associated with prolonged training loads, as well as risks associated with training, competition, and staying in extreme environments.