This unit examines muscle and neural adaptations to high-resistance training (HRT, also known as strength training) in clinical and aged populations as well as in healthy adults. To understand these adaptations the basis of muscle force development is first examined in terms of myosin function and the structural organization muscle (e.g. myofilaments, sarcomeres, myofibrils, muscle fibers) and the neural processes involved in maximal voluntary contractions. Muscle hypertrophy in response to HRT is examined, and well as muscle atrophy in response to disuse. Neural adaptations to HRT and disuse are also discussed. The unit combines this biological approach with a parallel evidence-based development of practical guidelines for HRT prescription, and outcomes of HRT in randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses of RCTs in clinical conditions. Students gain skills in strength assessment in practical sessions, and in the prescription of HRT through participation in a brief HRT program. Students also gain skills in critical analysis of published RCTs examining HRT in clinical populations. Finally the unit examines concepts on muscle energy balance in terms ATP production and use during exercise, and the concepts of peripheral and central fatigue.
Unit details and rules
Academic unit | Movement Sciences |
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Credit points | 6 |
Prerequisites
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None |
Corequisites
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None |
Prohibitions
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EXSS1036 |
Assumed knowledge
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None |
Available to study abroad and exchange students | No |
Teaching staff
Coordinator | Tom Gwinn, tom.gwinn@sydney.edu.au |
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Lecturer(s) | Tom Gwinn, tom.gwinn@sydney.edu.au |
Tutor(s) | Philippe jacquot, philippe.jacquot@sydney.edu.au |