Advanced Certificate in Exercise Science

Purpose

This Advanced Certificate in Exercise Science is intended to expand the exercise science knowledge base of exercise professionals and to move them towards the development of foundational competence. This implies that the learner will develop an understanding of the knowledge and thinking which underpins actions to be taken and which, in turn, will lead towards the development of principled, flexible thinking, thereby increasing the capacity to generate new knowledge.

The qualifying learner will be capable of

• Demonstrating a sound foundation of knowledge and skills through the study of the latest strength and conditioning research.
• Applying practical skills in the principles, methods and tracking of health related training and safety.
• Demonstrating the development of enhanced reflexive skills acquired through the reading of relevant research material and contributing to the writing of scientific articles.

Rationale

As many exercise professionals will predominately be working as independent contractors, the development of supporting skills and knowledge needed for this expert service work is imperative. It has been stated that expert service work is characterised by the performance of knowledgeable, customised, interactive labour, which implies the following:

• A need for a knowledge base.
• An understanding of client behaviour.

Together, these ensure the production of a "made to order" exchange that relies on the personal trainer being able to use own knowledge and skills creatively and autonomously. Thus the exercise professional can act as a reflexive practitioner. With the increase in disease and the emphasis on 'conditioning' of the body for both daily and sporting activities, the need for reflexive practitioners has increased.

This qualification will enable the successful learner to be able to use the latest developments in training techniques, nutrition and the treatment of injuries to develop programme interventions that will lead to improvements in the fitness levels and conditioning of both professional and recreational sportspeople, as well as with people whose special needs are often neglected in a regular gym environment.

It is assumed that learners have knowledge of sport/exercise science or fitness at NQF Level 5 and have completed, or will complete, a valid First Aid/CPR Certificate.

Recognition of Prior Learning

The Advanced Certificate in Exercise Science, NQF Level 6 may be achieved in part or wholly through the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) if a learner is able to demonstrate the necessary competence in the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes embedded in this qualification. The demonstration of competence must be supported by evidence which meets the criteria of validity, currency, reliability and fairness.

Current competencies in the fitness training industry will be assessed using the institutional RPL procedures. Candidates must, at the time of application, provide proof in the form of an academic record or other documentation to substantiate relevant practical experience. Such competencies may help gain access to the qualification or advanced placement therein.

Access to the Qualification

Candidates applying for access to this qualification should

• Hold a recognised Higher Certificate in Exercise Science.
• Be currently employed in, or have direct access to, a fitness or exercise environment to be able to complete the required workplace integrated learning.

The qualification consists of nine compulsory modules, eight of which are theoretical, totalling 111 Credits and one for experiential learning, which is worth 30 Credits. These credits together total 141 Credits - the minimum required to be awarded the qualification.

Modules

• Kinesiology, 21 Credits.
• Principles and Methods of Sport-Related Training, 37 Credits.
• Safety and Injury Prevention, 24 Credits.
• Exercise and Modifications for Special Needs, 20 Credits.
• Psychology and Lifestyle Issues, 2 Credits.
• Sports Conditioning Facilities, 2 Credits.
• Assessment and Evaluation, 3 Credits.
• Nutrition, 2 Credits.
• Experiential Learning, 30 Credits.

Total credits for the qualification: 141.

1. Demonstrate detailed knowledge of the functional anatomy and physiology of the musculoskeletal and endocrine systems of the human body.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of human bioenergetics, metabolism and human endocrine responses in the human body in order to optimise the physiological responses of all body systems to exercise.
3. Conduct and record a kinesiological analysis of specific motor skills or movements of the human body.
4. Select, conduct and interpret pre-participation screening and a variety of protocols to assess physical activity readiness and/or level of fitness of a given individual.
5. Manage, project and conduct oneself in a professional manner within the sports and fitness context.

Critical Cross-Field Outcomes

All the Critical Cross-Field Outcomes are addressed in this qualification.

The following Assessment Criteria may be applied in a generic manner or specifically to any or all of the Exit Level Outcomes:

1. Explain the physiological adaptations of the musculoskeletal and endocrine systems to aerobic and anaerobic exercise.
2. Develop training programmes to optimise the physiological responses of the body systems to exercise.
3. Use a kinesiological analysis to develop a training programme which addresses the specific needs of a given individual.
4. Design and demonstrate periodised conditioning and skills programmes which are tailored to meet the specific needs of sportspersons.
5. Implement, monitor and modify exercise programmes to prevent injury.
6. Design and demonstrate programmes which are tailored to meet the specific needs of special population clients.

• Range of special needs includes, but is not limited to: Diabetes, weight reduction, Parkinson's disease, HIV and AIDS, Cardiac disease and locomotor disability.

1. Define and implement appropriate nutritional guidelines to enhance sports performance for athletes.
2. Demonstrate knowledge of the fitness conditioning environment and the context in which physical activity takes place.
3. Demonstrate an understanding of how to manage, project and conduct oneself in a professional manner within the sports and fitness context.

• Range of areas to be addressed: Own physical and psychological wellbeing; application of performance psychology; use of communication and teaching strategies; own and clients' stress management; application of relevant legal requirements, application of ethical practices as the norm; application of generic and brand administration and management principles.

Integrated Assessment

At the start of the qualification, action plans are drawn up with each learner and feedback is given weekly as the course is carried out.

After each weekly workshop, homework is completed and feedback is provided.

Once examinations are written, feedback is given to learners on their results received.