Diploma in Sports Nutrition and Exercise

Course Description:

This comprehensive online diploma program provides a deep dive into the science of sports nutrition and exercise, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to optimize athletic performance and overall health.

Course Modules:

Module 1: Foundations of Exercise Science

• Topics:
  • Anatomy and physiology of exercise
  • Biomechanics of movement
  • Energy systems and metabolism
  • Cardiorespiratory fitness
  • Muscular strength and endurance
  • Flexibility and mobility

Module 2: Principles of Nutrition

• Topics:
  • Macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, fats)
  • Micronutrients (vitamins and minerals)
  • Dietary guidelines and recommendations
  • Nutritional assessment methods
  • Vegetarian and vegan diets
  • Food safety and hygiene

Module 3: Sports Nutrition for Performance

• Topics:
  • Carbohydrate loading and glycogen replenishment
  • Protein intake for muscle growth and repair
  • Fat intake for energy and hormone production
  • Hydration and electrolyte balance
  • Nutritional ergogenic aids (creatine, caffeine, etc.)
  • Pre-workout, intra-workout, and post-workout nutrition

Module 4: Nutrition for Weight Management

• Topics:
  • Energy balance and weight control
  • Calorie intake and expenditure
  • Dietary strategies for weight loss and gain
  • Body composition assessment methods
  • Role of exercise in weight management
  • Addressing disordered eating

Module 5: Nutrition for Special Populations

• Topics:
  • Pediatric nutrition
  • Geriatric nutrition
  • Pregnancy and lactation nutrition
  • Nutrition for athletes with special needs (e.g., diabetes, allergies)
  • Nutritional considerations for individuals with injuries

Module 6: Exercise Prescription and Programming

• Topics:
  • Fitness assessment and evaluation
  • Exercise prescription principles (FITT principle)
  • Designing personalized exercise programs
  • Strength training principles and techniques
  • Cardiovascular training programs
  • Flexibility and mobility training

Module 7: Coaching and Counseling Skills

• Topics:
  • Communication and interpersonal skills
  • Motivational interviewing techniques
  • Setting and achieving goals
  • Building rapport and trust with clients
  • Dealing with client challenges and resistance
  • Professional ethics and legal considerations

Module 8: Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice

• Topics:
  • Scientific literature search and evaluation
  • Critical appraisal of research studies
  • Applying research findings to practice
  • Staying current with the latest research in sports nutrition and exercise

Module 9: Business and Professional Development

• Topics:
  • Starting a private practice or working in a fitness setting
  • Marketing and business planning
  • Professional certifications and continuing education
  • Networking and professional development opportunities
  • Building a professional portfolio

Module 10: Capstone Project

• Topics:
  • Conducting a comprehensive case study of an athlete or client
  • Developing a personalized nutrition and exercise plan
  • Implementing and monitoring the plan
  • Analyzing results and making adjustments
  • Presenting findings in a professional format

Course Access