Module Identifier RS30710  
Module Title EQUINE PERFORMANCE PHYSIOLOGY  
Academic Year 2001/2002  
Co-ordinator Mrs Meriel Moore-Colyer  
Semester Semester 1  
Other staff Mr Sebastian McBride  
Pre-Requisite Biology 'A' level, minimum grade D (or equivalent)  
Course delivery Lecture   20 Hours  
  Tutorial    
Assessment Assignment   3000 word essay   40%  
  Exam   2 Hours   60%  
  Resit assessment   Supplementary Exam - As per University - Examinations or re-submission of coursework    

Aims


The module aims to:


provide a knowledge of the microscopic structure and physiology of bone, nerve and muscle tissue, and their function in relation to animal movement; and to provide an understanding of the physiological responses which occur during the athletic conditioning of the horse.

Learning outcomes


On completion of this module, students should be able to:


1. Discuss regulation of bone remodelling
2. Identify and describe microscopic anatomy of muscle and factors influencing muscle contraction
3. Describe the microscopic anatomy and physiology of the nervous system
4. Discuss the nervous system in terms of control of posture and goal directed movement
5.   Describe physiological and biochemical responses to athletic conditioning
6.   Indentify the suitability of methods for monitoring fitness and prdicting performance potential
7.   Follow and understand current areas of research in equine performance physiology.

Brief description


This module will consists of 20 lectures. 2 tutorials and supporting practicals which will consider various aspects of applied equine performance physiology. Initial lectures will concentrate on muscular contraction and aspects of neuromuscular function before considering the effects of exercise, training and detraining on the structure and function of the equine athlete. The tutorials will provide a means by which students can begin to develop knowledge through self-study and to critically assess research work done.

Reading Lists

Books
Frandsen R D. (1992) Anatomy and physiology of farm animals. 5th. Lea and Febiger
Hodgson D R and Rose R J. (1994) The athletic horse. W B Saunders & Co
Jones W E. (1989) Equine sports medicine. Lea and Febiger