URL study guide
https://studiegids.vu.nl/en/courses/2025-2026/B_PPEECourse Objective
The student has knowledge of the physiological mechanisms during human performance in extreme thermal and altitude circumstances, as well as the relevant research methods. The student can apply this knowledge to questions regarding human performance in extreme environments. The student is able to evaluate the validity and relevance of scientific literature related to performance in extreme environments. The students will learn to critically read scientific papers on the topic of performance in extreme environments published in international journals. The student will be able to communicate (‘translate’) the implications of basic scientific knowledge on performance in extreme environments to practical issues raised by coaches and trainers in the field of sports and occupational health.Course Content
During the course, a critical overview will be given of the current knowledge of physiology of human performance in extreme environments. Many examples will be provided from own research. The following subjects will be addressed:Physiology of performance at high altitude Performance in the heat and cold and methods how to prevent performance deterioration Human adaptation to extreme environments; Thermal modelingTeaching Methods
The course consists of a series of six lectures and three work groups condensed in a three week period (October). The work group sessions will be onReading papers on heat acclimation – the students have to translate this in practical recommendations for a coachEvaluation of submitted papers as editorial teamUsing thermal models to assess strainA visit to the Human Performance Lab will be part of the course.Method of Assessment
The results of the work group performance will count for 50% of the final grade. A 2 hours 15 minutes exam with open-ended questions in the week immediately following the three week lecture period will provide the other 50% of the grade. Exam has to be 5.5 or more to pass.Literature
The course will mainly use:research paperswebinars from www.icee2021.comSelected chapters from Exercise Physiology- McArdle, Katch and Katch 8th edition. Lippincott Williams And WilkinsAdvanced Environmental Exercise Physiology
- Cheung and Ainsly. 2nd edition. Human Kinetics.
Target Audience
Students in track biophysics of sportsRecommended background knowledge
Chapter on Thermal Physiology in Exercise Physiology- McArdle, Katchand Katch 8th edition. Lippincott Williams And Wilkins