Physical Education / Sports Studies

Course summary

Candidates will study the following areas: Physiological Aspects In this section of the course, the pupils learn about the body and how it is affected by exercise and training. Topics include anatomy, the muscular system and the mechanics of movement, nutrition for sport, sports injuries, a study of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, the components of fitness and how to test them. The following are also covered in depth: the physiology of muscles; causes of fatigue and recovery; physiology of elite athletes; the energy systems and biomechanics. Psychological Aspects This section leads to an understanding of how psychological factors affect performance, how skills are learnt and improved and how information is processed, as well as the most effective methods of practice. With further study of the ways in which the mind can affect the performance of elite sportspeople is considered, with topics including group dynamics, leadership, stress management, aggression and personalities. Sociological Aspects The pupils study the influence of sport on society. The effects of racism, gender inequalities, impairments and class issues which performers face in modern sport are investigated. The effect of the following on sport are considered: commercialism, media, professionalism, drugs in sport, talent identification, technology and hooliganism. The impact of World Games, such as the Olympics are studied in depth.