Module Identifier SS12110  
Module Title MUSCLE FUNCTION  
Academic Year 2005/2006  
Co-ordinator Dr Rhys Thatcher  
Semester Semester 1  
Course delivery Lecture    
  Seminars / Tutorials   Consolidation workshops  
  Practical    
Assessment
Assessment TypeAssessment Length/DetailsProportion
Semester Exam1.5 Hours examination50%
Semester Assessment2 Hours Experimental laboratory report completed under examination conditions, open book.50%
Supplementary Exam2 Hours  100%

Learning outcomes

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

1. Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the gross anatomy and basic micro-structure of muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments and bone
2. Demonstrate a knowledge of how muscle activates
3. Recognise the key functional mechanical characteristics of muscle using appropriate terminology
4. Describe the use of cycle ergometry and isometric dynamometry in the assessment of muscle function
5. Complete a succinct report of a laboratory experiment

Brief description

This module introduces the muscle and its role in the performance of sport and exercise activities. By considering the fundamental properties of muscle and its associated tissues (tendons, ligaments, joints and bone) students will gain a sound grounding in the physiology and mechanics of muscle which influence its performance. Practical laboratory classes on assessing muscle function will be used to consolidate understanding and to develop skills in experimental reporting.

Aims

1. Introduce students to the gross and micro-structure of muscle and associated tissues (tendons, ligaments, joints and bones)
2. Describe how a muscle is activated and the inter-relationships between the force; length and velocity of contraction
3. Examine the three distinct types of muscle action: concentric, eccentric and isokinetic
4. Gain a basic understanding of scalar and vector quantities in relation to muscle performance (distance, force, work, power etc.)
5. Develop a basic understanding of the assessment of muscular function through the use of cycle ergometry and isometric dynamometry.

Reading Lists

Books
McArdle, WD, Katch, FI & Katch, VL (2001) Exercise Physiology 5th ed. Lea & Febiger, Phil
McComas, AJ (1996) Skeletal muscle form and function Human Kinetics, Champaign II
Trew, M. & Everett, T. (1997) Human movement: an introductory text 3rd ed. Churchill Livingstone
Watkins, J. (1999) Structure and function of the musculoskeletal system Human Kinetics, Champaign, Il
Luttgens, K and Ham, N. (1997) Kinesiology 9th ed. Bron and Benchmark

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 4