Exercise, Health and Disease

Unit code: SCL3001 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Park
Prerequisites
AHE2006 - Exercise Interventions for Healthy Populations
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Overview
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Overview

This unit of study explores the relationship between regular physical activity (or lack thereof) and the incidence and severity of lifestyle related diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes, cancer, lung disease osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. It considers the risk factors for the development of these diseases and how these can be modified by exercise. The practical component will explore screening tools for various diseases and considerations for exercise testing and prescription in clinical populations. The unit is ideal preparation for the Master of Clinical Exercise Science and Rehabilitation to become an Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA) accredited Exercise Physiologist.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Appraise the risk factors, and signs and symptoms of lifestyle-related, age-related, and other common diseases and conditions in relation to contemporary multi-ethnic Australian demographics;
  2. Critically interpret the risk factors for lifestyle-related chronic diseases and conditions that require consultation with a medical practitioner before participating in physical activity, exemplifying standards of professional practice;
  3. Access and apply the evidence behind the current exercise guidelines and considerations for lifestyle-related chronic diseases and conditions; and,
  4. Solve complex problems with cultural sensitivity and communicate solutions to wide-ranging audiences.

Study as a single unit

This unit can be studied on its own, without enrolling in a full degree.

Learn more about single units of study at VU

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 20%
3 tests on theoretical concepts
Assessment type: Case Study
|
Grade: 40%
Case study
Assessment type: Practicum
|
Grade: 40%
Assess practical skills required to perform initial clinical screening of clients with chronic lifestyle-related diseases

Required reading

Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription,
ACSM (2022)| Philadelphia: Wolters Kluwer/Lippincott Williams & Wilkins Health.

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Bachelor of Exercise Science (Clinical Practice)
ABHE | Bachelor degree | Duration: 3 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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