Overview

Exercise and Health, studied within the Bachelor of Biomedical Science at The University of Western Australia, examines how physical activity shapes the body, the mind and long-term wellbeing. Students investigate the systems that govern human movement, nutrition and motivation, and learn to apply that understanding to improve health and physical performance. The major prepares students for work in health education, exercise rehabilitation, health service delivery and the fitness industry, and it complements other science disciplines.

What You'll Learn

• Physiology and how the body functions

• The musculoskeletal system, human movement and applied anatomy in athletic performance

• Physical fitness and its connection to health

• Exercise physiology and how the body responds to training

• Designing and delivering exercise programs matched to individual goals

• The psychology of motivation and ways to encourage lifelong physical activity

• Applied nutrition for sport, exercise and health, including bioenergetics and energy balance

• Exercise as medicine, and how motor development informs teaching in practice

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to apply physiological, anatomical and behavioural concepts to assess health and improve exercise performance. They will use evidence-based principles to design effective, individualised training programs that build fitness and health. Students will collect, analyse and interpret health and fitness data using scientific methods, and apply nutrition principles to shape diets that support health and performance. They will also be able to educate others about the value of physical activity and promote healthy lifestyles within the community. Graduates will have a sound base for postgraduate professional training in areas such as rehabilitation, education or health promotion.