Exercise Biochemistry

In this course we will investigate the biochemical, biological, genetic, and psychological factors associated with athletic performance. In lectures and active discussion, we will begin by discussing the origins of exercise physiology in the early 1900’s, introducing topics such as metabolic fuels and their utilization, oxygen and water, metabolism, and physiological adaptations to training. Special attention will be paid to muscle (power) and pulmonary organization and function (VO2 max), and how psychology and the brain (the ‘master regulator’) contribute to achieve maximum performance. We will read several books and papers from the popular and primary literature and consider how they inform our study of exercise. Films and guest lectures by experts and by accomplished endurance athletes will provide a personal perspective. Laboratory and training room sessions will put these themes into practice. We will conclude with student-led group presentations on controversies such as performance enhancing drugs, the efficacy of aggressively marketed supplements, sex determination, technological enhancements and equipment advancements, human rights and political protests, and athlete health and safety.