Module Code - Title:

SS6022 - SPEED SPORTS

Year Last Offered:

2025/6

Hours Per Week:

Lecture

1

Lab

1

Tutorial

2

Other

0

Private

0

Credits

6

Grading Type:

Prerequisite Modules:

Rationale and Purpose of the Module:

This module will provide core knowledge in the area of speed development within a number of different sport and exercise sciences. The module will utilise a combination of lectures, skill based lab sessions, case studies, problem based learning and student centred learning. The emphasis of this module will be on gaining an understanding of the methodologies to develop a speed based athlete.

Syllabus:

Biomechanical Aspects of Speed Development - technique driven biomechanical research, movement patter assessment, muscle activation patterns, development of strength for speed, complex and contrast training methods, fatigue and impact on movement patterns. Nutritional Aspects of Speed Development - high energy phosphates, phosphate buffering, muscle protein synthesis. Physiological Aspects of Speed Development - Force-velocity and power-velocity relationship of skeletal muscle, physiological components of fatigue, neuromuscular adaptation to training, morphological development in training for speed and power.

Learning Outcomes:

Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)

Recollect and discriminate between different scientifically grounded techniques for development of speed within a sporting context Demonstrate an appreciation of current research within the area of speed sports. Reproduce and defend lab based skills to enhance learning and demonstrate a grasp of theoretical concepts. Recall and assess theoretical concepts related to a number of different case studies. Draw upon skills and knowledge already acquired in an undergraduate degree programme.

Affective (Attitudes and Values)

Synthesis and embrace the advanced analysis of research data related to speed development in athletes. Reproduce and defend methods related to biomechanical, nutritional, and physiological concepts within speed development.

Psychomotor (Physical Skills)

Demonstrate proficiency in techniques related to the measurement of speed related concepts within the biomechanical, nutritional, and physiological domains. Organise and perform lab based skills related to a selected human movement activity and defend the results.

How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:

Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):

Prime Texts:

Hargreaves, M. and Hawley, J. (2002) Physiological Basis of Sports Performance , Sydney, Australia, McGraw-Hill

Komi, P.V. (1992) Strength and Power in Sport , Oxford, U.K., Blackwell Scientific .

Manore, M.M., Meyer, N.L. and Thompson, J. (2009) Sport Nutrition for Health and Performance , Leeds, Human Kinetics.

Dunford, M. (2010) Fundamentals of Sport and Exercise Nutrition , Leeds, Human Kinetics.

Bartlett, R. (2007) Introduction to Sport Biomechanics 2nd edition. , London, Routledge.

Chapman, A.E. (2008) Biomechanical Analysis of Fundamental Human Movements , Leeds, Human Kinetics.

Foran, B. (2001) High-Performance Sports Conditioning , Leeds, U.K., Human Kinetics

Other Relevant Texts:

Maughan, R.J. Burke, L.M. and Coyle , E.F. (2004) Food, Nutrition and Sports Performance II. , London, U.K., Routledge.

Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:

Semester(s) Module is Offered:

Module Leader:

grainne.hayes@ul.ie