Extreme Exercise Physiology, 15 credits

Contents

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.

Expected learning outcomes

Module 1 – 5 Credits

Knowledge and Understanding:
The student must be able to
1. Describe the physiological effects of exercise and exposure to extreme environments.
2. Explain the physiological effects of extreme physical exertion.
3. Outline measures to reduce the risk of negative consequences associated with extreme physical exertion and exposure to extreme environments.

Module 2 – 5 Credits

Skills and Ability:
The student must be able to
4. Utilize field-based tests and instruments and analyze physiological effects of exercise and exposure to extreme environments.
5. Identify and apply appropriate measures in practice to minimize risks during exercise and exposure to extreme environments.

Module 3 – 2.5 Credits

Knowledge and Understanding:
The student must be able to
6. Describe fundamental exercise physiological training principles in relation to ultradistance events.

Judgement and Approach:
The student must be able to
7. Assess risks and consequences associated with participating in ultradistance events in cold environments.

Module 4 – 2.5 Credits

Knowledge and Understanding:
The student must be able to
8. Describe common injuries associated with training for ultradistance events and how the occurrence of these injuries can be minimized.

Judgement and Approach:
The student must be able to
9. Assess risks and consequences associated with extreme physical exertion and exposure to extreme environments.

Required Knowledge

General entry requirements and a minimum of 7,5 university credits in human biology/physiology or equivalent qualifications.

Form of instruction

The course is delivered as distance learning with campus-based meetings and one session in an alpine environment. It consists of four meetings, with two in the autumn semester and two in the spring semester. Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, laboratory work in physically demanding environments, and supervised group and individual work. Active participation in endurance-oriented training sessions in Arctic conditions is required. Some practical elements are conducted as outdoor field studies, which may involve evening and weekend activities. The course is conducted in English if English-speaking students participate.

Examination modes

Learning Outcomes 1-3: Assessed individually through a written examination with grades of Pass with Distinction, Pass, or Fail.

Learning Outcomes 4-5: Assessed in groups with individual evaluation through practical tests and written assignments, graded as Pass or Fail.

Learning Outcome 6-7: Assessed in groups with individual evaluation through seminars, graded as Pass or Fail.

Learning Outcome 8-9: Assessed in groups with individual evaluation through seminars, graded as Pass or Fail.

To receive the grade Pass, a minimum of Pass is required on all examined modules. To receive the grade Pass with Distinction, a grade of Pass with Distinction is also required on Module 1.

The examiner may decide to deviate from the examination format specified in the syllabus. Adaptations for students with disabilities must be requested from the course coordinator at least 10 workingdays before the examination.

Other regulations

If the course is discontinued or the syllabus undergoes significant changes, examinations based on the original syllabus will be offered for two years after the student's first registration.