Module: Strength & Conditioning 4: Programme Design and Implementation

Latest Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026

Module Title	Strength & Conditioning 4: Programme Design and Implementation
Module Code	SPO1059 (ITS: SS512)
Faculty	Health & Human Performance	School	Science & Health
NFQ level	9	Credit Rating	10

Description

This module aims to advance students’ theoretical knowledge of, and practical competence, in the design and implementation of strength and conditioning programmes in various environments. Students will develop the ability to critique the existing strength and conditioning literature/practices and use this to lead in the development and implementation of tailored strength and conditioning programmes to enhance health, function and performance. They will learn essential skills in communication and the ability to select and modify appropriate programmes for a range of individuals and settings.

Learning Outcomes

1. A systematic understanding and critical awareness of the technical elements of various strengthening exercises and the ability to enhance technique
2. A systematic understanding and critical awareness of complementary training strategies to enhance a variety of components of fitness and performance
3. Lead in the design, development, implementation and adaptation of tailored training plans to maximise health and performance, minimise the risk of overtraining and reduce the risk of injury.

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full time hours per semester
Lecture	24	face to face lectures augmented with online resources
Laboratory	50	practicals
Directed learning	72	Specified learning activities
Independent Study	104	Directed and self directed learning and refinement of practical skills
Total Workload: 250

Section Breakdown
CRN	11848	Part of Term	Semester 1 & 2
Coursework	0%	Examination Weight	0%
Grade Scale	40PASS	Pass Both Elements	Y
Resit Category	RC1	Best Mark	N
Module Co-ordinator	David Nolan	Module Teacher

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Assessment Breakdown
Practical/skills evaluation	Demonstration, instruction, correction and adaptation of a range of strength and conditioning exercises	25%	n/a
Group assignment	Design, develop and present an annual training programme for a given person across a range of environments based upon a critical review of the existing literature	40%	n/a
Reflective journal	Self-reflective case studies	35%	n/a

Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; RC1: A resit is available for both^* components of the module. RC2: No resit is available for a 100% coursework module. RC3: No resit is available for the coursework component where there is a coursework and summative examination element. ^* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a coursework/summative examination split; where the module is 100% coursework, there will also be a resit of the assessment

Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Safety and screening
Effective communication for the strength and conditioning professional, needs analysis, health screening, referral and selection of appropriate modes and types of exercise, ethical considerations for the strength and conditioning professional, safe and effective use of equipment

Programme design
Development of aerobic fitness, endurance, strength, flexibility, body composition

Programme evaluation
Critical analysis and evaluation with Instructor/participant reinforcement and correction (observation, correction, positive and negative feedback)

Music and choreography
using music and choreography as a method of improving conditioning

Load management strategies
Periodization, planning and integrated training, recovery and regeneration, load management

Case Studies and Programming for various clients in various environments
Examples and directed learning

Indicative Reading List

Books:

Haff , G. Gregory ,Triplett , N. Travis: 2015, Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning 4th Edition, Human Kinetics, 752, 149250162X
Fleck, Steven J.,Kraemer, William: 2014, Designing Resistance Training Programs, 4E, Human Kinetics, 520, 0736081704
American College of Sports Medicine,LIGUORI: 0, Acsm Guideline Exercise Test Pres 11, 1975150198
David Joyce,Dan Lewindon: 2021, High-Performance Training for Sports, Human Kinetics Publishers, 496, 1492592900

Articles:
None

Other Resources

None