Integrative Neuromuscular Performance

URL study guide

https://studiegids.vu.nl/en/courses/2026-2027/B_INTNP

Course Objective

After successful completion of the course, students can: 1. Analyse and explain how muscle contractile properties and neuromuscular activation patterns interact to influence power production at the single-fibre, muscle, and whole-body levels. 2. Explain how convective oxygen transport, oxygen diffusion, and mitochondrial oxidative capacity jointly determine sustainable power output. 3.Analyse and interpret how fatigue, muscle energetics, and metabolite accumulation affect power production dynamics during exercise. 4. Explain how some of the most crucial methods can be used to gain insight into fundamental aspects of neuromuscular power production.

Course Content

This course provides the essential scientific foundation for the second and third courses in the sequence. It introduces the fundamental principles necessary for understanding advanced concepts addressed later in the program. A solid grasp of the material covered in this course is therefore crucial for successful progression within the curriculum. Human movement emerges from the dynamic interplay between muscle cell mechanics (such as cross-bridge cycling), neural activation (controlling fibre recruitment and contraction speed), and cellular bioenergetics (sustaining force and power). These processes are supported by the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, which deliver oxygen and remove metabolic by-products. Performance is shaped by the continuous interaction of contractile mechanics, neuromuscular control, energetics, oxygen transport, and fatigue, with both maximal instantaneous power and sustainable long-duration power governed by distinct yet overlapping mechanisms. Mastering these principles is essential for advancing research and applying evidence-based practices in sports, rehabilitation, and health, ultimately enhancing athletic performance, rehabilitation, healthy aging, and disease prevention.

Teaching Methods

Slidecast presentations Plenary work group meetings

Method of Assessment

Written examination consisting of open-ended questions

Target Audience

This course is connected to the learning trajectories: Theory of Human Movement Sciences Academic and Research Skills

Entry Requirements

Registration in specialisation Physiology of Human Performance and Health