Outline

Overview

The aim of this unit is to provide students with the knowledge and skills required to design and implement exercise programs for healthy adults focussing on gym-based settings. This unit will cover pre-exercise health screening, physical assessments (e.g. anthropometry, flexibility, posture testing, cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness), interpretation of test results, goal setting, prescription and implementation of cardiorespiratory and resistance exercise. A focus of Exercise Programming and Delivery is the development of practical skills required to conduct exercise assessments and training sessions in a professional manner. Additionally, acquiring the ability to accurately monitor and evaluate a client's response to exercise, make appropriate modifications to an exercise program, reflect on their own performance, and write client reports and case notes.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Movement Sciences
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	EXSS1036 and EXSS1037 and EXSS2032
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	None
Assumed knowledge ?	None
Available to study abroad and exchange students	No

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Timothy English, tim.english@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 31 August 2026

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Written exam	Final exam Final examination assessing students鈥� theoretical and applied understanding of unit content. The exam will cover lecture content from Weeks 1-10, as well as content and skills developed through practical and tutorial classes.	35%	Formal exam period	2 hours	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	Assessment 1: Week 3 quiz (early feedback task) Short quiz assessing students鈥� theoretical and applied understanding of unit content. The quiz will cover lecture content from Weeks 1鈥�3.	5%	Week 03 Due date: 23 Aug 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 30 Aug 2026	30 minutes	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Practical skill	Assessment 2A: Competency checklist A Competency checklist completed in practical classes during Weeks 1-4. Students will progressively develop and demonstrate competency in case note writing and preparation of an initial client report.	5%	Week 05 Due date: 04 Sep 2026 at 18:00	500-1000 words	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Assessment 3: 6-week exercise program with justification Students submit a 2-page, 6-week exercise program with a justification of up to 500 words. The program should show appropriate goals, exercise prescription, progression, monitoring and safety considerations. The justification explains key decisions.	20%	Week 06 Due date: 13 Sep 2026 at 23:59 Closing date: 25 Sep 2026	2 A4 pages (program) 500 words (just.)	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Practical skill	Assessment 2B: Competency checklist B Competency checklist completed in practical classes during Weeks 6-11. Students will develop skills in exercise instruction and continue to progressively develop and demonstrate competency in case note writing and preparation of a final client report.	5%	Week 11 Due date: 23 Oct 2026 at 18:00	750-1250 words	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
In-person practical, skills, or performance task or test	Assessment 4A: Maximal aerobic assessment with self-reflection Safely & effectively implement an aerobic fitness test and self reflect on learning (hurdle task).	15%	Week 12 Due date: 30 Oct 2026 at 18:00	20 min	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
In-person practical, skills, or performance task or test	Assessment 4B: Maximal strength assessment with self-reflection Safely & effectively implement a muscular fitness test and self reflect on learning (hurdle task).	15%	Week 13 Due date: 06 Nov 2026 at 18:00	20 min	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
= hurdle task ? = early feedback task ?

Early feedback task

This unit includes an early feedback task, designed to give you feedback prior to the census date for this unit. Details are provided in the site and your result will be recorded in your Marks page. It is important that you actively engage with this task so that the University can support you to be successful in this unit.

Assessment summary

Assessment 1: Week 3 quiz - 5%
Early feedback task assessing foundational knowledge from the first weeks of semester.

Assessment 2: Competency checklists - Total 10%
Part A: Weeks 1-4 case notes and initial client report - 5%
Part B: Weeks 6-11 case notes, exercise instruction and final client report - 5%

Assessment 3: 6-week exercise program with justification - Total 20%
Students submit a 6-week exercise program and written justification. The assessment is weighted 10% for the program and 10% for the justification.

Assessment 4: Practical assessments - Total 30%
Part A: Maximal aerobic assessment with self-reflection - 15%
Part B: Maximal strength assessment with self-reflection - 15%

Assessment 5: Final exam - 35%
Individual final examination assessing theoretical and applied understanding of lecture content from Weeks 1鈥�10, as well as content and skills developed through practical and tutorial classes.

All assessment tasks are compulsory. Failure to complete and submit an assessment task will result in an absent fail (AF) grade for this unit.

Assessment 4, Part A and B, completed in Week 12 (Part A) and Week 13 (Part B), are hurdle tasks. Students must achieve at least 50% in each part to meet the hurdle. One additional opportunity will be provided to students who do not meet the hurdle on their first attempt. For students who meet the hurdle on their second attempt, the mark will be capped at 50%.

Assessment criteria

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction (HD)	85-100	Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at an exceptional standard, as defined by grade descriptors or exemplars outlined by your faculty or school.
Distinction (DI)	75-84	Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at a very high standard, as defined by grade descriptors or exemplars outlined by your faculty or school.
Credit (CR)	65-74	Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at a good standard, as defined by grade descriptors or exemplars outlined by your faculty or school.
Pass (PS)	50-64	Awarded when you demonstrate the learning outcomes for the unit at an acceptable standard, as defined by grade descriptors or exemplars outlined by your faculty or school.
Fail (FA)	0-49	When you don鈥檛 meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard.
Absent fail (AF)	0-49	When you haven鈥檛 completed all assessment tasks or met the attendance requirements.

听

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the听Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the听Current Students website听for more information on AI in assessments, including听details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

This unit has an exception to the standard University policy or supplementary information has been provided by the unit coordinator. This information is displayed below:

As per university policy.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website听provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the听Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM)听which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the听Current Students website听for more information on AI in assessments, including听details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a听simple extension.鈥� The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can鈥檛 complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for听special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students,听听includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy听reflects the University鈥檚 commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Week 01	Introduction to unit; Pre-exercise health screening review and anthropometry, flexibility/ROM and posture testing	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 01	Initial client visit: Pre-screening, goals, barriers, facilitators, anthropometry, flexibility/ROM and posture tests	Practical (2 hr)
Week 02	Submaximal and maximal tests for cardiorespiratory fitness	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 02	Client visit 2: Submaximal cardiorespiratory testing	Practical (2 hr)
Week 03	Strength, power, and endurance testing for the assessment of muscular fitness	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 03	Client visit 3: Maximal cardiorespiratory testing	Practical (2 hr)
Week 04	Interpretation of test results and goal setting	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 04	Client visit 4: 1RM testing	Practical (2 hr)
Week 05	PART 1 Design and implementation of resistance and cardiorespiratory training programs	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 05	Tutorial: Case study (develop goals and design a concurrent training program)	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 06	Modelling, feedback and movement cues in exercise instruction	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 06	Client visit 5: Training session 1	Practical (2 hr)
Week 07	PART 2 Design and implementation of resistance and cardiorespiratory training programs.	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 07	Client visit 6: Training session 2	Practical (2 hr)
Week 08	Monitoring, evaluation, and modification of resistance and cardiorespiratory training programs.	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 08	Client visit 7: Training session 3	Practical (2 hr)
Week 09	Training program summary documentation	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 09	Client visit 8: Training session 4 (no practical class - vlog an exercise session)	Practical (2 hr)
Week 10	Introduction to reflective practice	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 10	Client visit 9: Training session 5	Practical (2 hr)
Week 11	Client visit 10: Training session 6 / re-testing session	Practical (2 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

Student attendance at practical classes is essential, as Assessment 2 requires students to complete competency checklists in class across the semester. Assessment 2A will be completed during Weeks 1鈥�4 and focuses on case notes and the initial client report. Assessment 2B will be completed during Weeks 6鈥�11 and focuses on case notes, exercise instruction and the final client report.

Students will be required to actively participate in practical classes, contribute to client assessment and training activities, and progressively develop and refine their documentation and exercise instruction skills. Case notes and report components will be reviewed by tutors during practical classes, with students expected to respond to feedback and demonstrate competency. Exercise instruction competency will also be assessed during practical sessions. Students who do not attend practical classes may be unable to complete the required competency checklists for Assessment 2.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

Required Textbook

ACSM鈥檚 Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription, 12th Edition. Philadelphia: Wolters Kluwer/Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2025.

Recommended听textbooks for further learning

Coombes and Skinner: ESSA鈥檚 Student Manual for Health, Exercise and Sport Assessment. 2nd Edition. Elsevier, 2020.

Gibson AL, Wagner DR, Heyward VH: 2024,听Advanced fitness assessment and exercise prescription, 9th ed. Human Kinetics, Champaign, IL. 2025.

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. Select, perform, and evaluate cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness assessments
LO2. Communicate, using appropriate terminology, the results of cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness assessment and training outcomes to both lay persons and clinicians
LO3. Design an exercise program for cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness with consideration of best-practice guidelines and exercise capacity of an individual
LO4. Apply knowledge of the adaptations to chronic exercise to justify the provision of exercise programs
LO5. Demonstrate professional conduct that is consistent with the ESSA Code of Professional Conduct and Ethical Practice

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all 爆料王 graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one鈥檚 personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Alignment with Competency standards

Outcomes	Competency standards
	Accredited Exercise Scientist Professional Standards - 2024 - 1.2.1. Develop reflective practices through critically evaluating service delivery and outcomes and commit to ongoing learning. 1.2.5. Select and apply contextually appropriate verbal and non-verbal communication strategies in a timely and respectful manner to engage effectively with clients, service users, colleagues, and relevant others. 2.2.3. Anatomy and Physiology. Describe the function and interaction of physiological systems and how they respond to movement. 2.2.7. Anatomy and Physiology. Interpret the impact of body proportions and body composition on health and performance. 3.2.3. Biomechanics. Apply principles of functional anatomy and biomechanics to critically analyse movement patterns and identify strategies to enhance performance, identify deficiencies, and minimise injury risk across a range of contexts and populations. 3.2.5. Exercise Physiology. Analyse and interpret physiological data obtained during acute exercise, and compare that data between time points, individuals, populations and environments. 4.2.1. Explain the scientific rationale, reliability, validity, assumptions, and limitations of common health and exercise assessments and select appropriate equipment and digital practices based on individual needs. 4.2.2. Apply informed consent procedures, gather relevant medical and activity history, and conduct a pre-exercise risk assessment to ensure safety and suitability for activity. 4.2.4. Analyse and interpret information and results from assessments, including the accuracy and limitations of the assessments. 4.2.7. Select effective communication strategies, including interpreting or explaining normative data where appropriate, to support clients and service users from diverse populations in understanding assessment outcomes.
	Accredited Exercise Scientist Professional Standards (2022) - 1.2.2. Support clients to meet their goals through the integration and application of the exercise science sub-discipline standards. 1.2.3. Choose and apply a variety of verbal and non-verbal communication methods appropriate to the client and/or population, carers and other health and exercise professionals. 13.2.6. Demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively and respond appropriately to assist clients from diverse populations to change their health and physical activity behaviours. 4.2.6. Identify and explain the common contraindications for participation in exercise and the associated risks. 4.2.9. Evaluate and record client progress during an exercise-based intervention and communicate with the client, and families, carers and other health and exercise professionals where appropriate. 7.2.8. Analyse, interpret, communicate and record information and results from assessments including the accuracy and limitations of the assessment with the client, and families, carers and other health and exercise professionals where appropriate. Accredited Exercise Scientist Professional Standards - 2024 - 1.2.4. Practice inclusively, respecting diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, gender and sexually diverse persons, persons of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and those living with a disability. 1.2.5. Select and apply contextually appropriate verbal and non-verbal communication strategies in a timely and respectful manner to engage effectively with clients, service users, colleagues, and relevant others. 1.2.6. Practice collaboratively within intraprofessional, interprofessional, and multidisciplinary teams, incorporating diverse perspectives and expertise to effectively address whole-person health and human performance needs. 2.2.2. Anatomy and Physiology. Use anatomical terms to describe position, movement, body direction, regions, and body planes. 3.2.8. Health and Behaviour. Formulate effective communication strategies and respond appropriately to assist clients and service users from diverse populations to develop and maintain appropriate health and physical activity behaviours. 4.2.4. Analyse and interpret information and results from assessments, including the accuracy and limitations of the assessments. 4.2.7. Select effective communication strategies, including interpreting or explaining normative data where appropriate, to support clients and service users from diverse populations in understanding assessment outcomes. 5.2.3. Interpret and communicate assessment data to inform physical activity and exercise-based approaches, selecting appropriate exercises and equipment based on individual needs and abilities.
	Accredited Exercise Scientist Professional Standards (2022) - 1.2.2. Support clients to meet their goals through the integration and application of the exercise science sub-discipline standards. 3.2.3. Design exercise-based interventions to maintain and/or improve health and fitness, wellbeing and performance that consider the physiological responses to acute exercise, and the adaptations to chronic exercise. 4.2.1. Select and apply a range of evidence-based tools and methods to prescribe monitor and evaluate exercise load and progress based on the needs of individuals. 4.2.10. Design and deliver evidence-based, exercise-based interventions and apply behavioural strategies that meet the needs and preferences of clients. 4.2.2. Interpret data obtained during a client assessment to prescribe, deliver and monitor physical activity and exercise-based interventions. 4.2.3. Analyse a broad range of exercise modalities and select appropriate exercises and equipment to suit the needs and abilities of clients including consideration of social determinants of health. 4.2.6. Identify and explain the common contraindications for participation in exercise and the associated risks. 4.2.8. Evaluate and monitor exercise-based interventions to ensure client safety. 5.2.6. Analyse and evaluate results from static and dynamic assessments and provide recommendations for exercise prescription. 7.2.1. Select and apply appropriate assessment procedures, including screening of appropriate social determinants of health, goal setting, obtaining informed consent and a relevant medical history, and performing a pre-exercise risk assessment and understand when onward referrals are warranted. Accredited Exercise Scientist Professional Standards - 2024 - 1.2.2. Practice with integrity within the AES scope of practice and the ESSA Code of Professional Conduct and Ethical Practice, promote professional capabilities, and judge when to refer onwards. 2.2.11. Physical Activity, Sedentary Behaviour and Nutrition 2.2.11 Identify and use current Australian guidelines to provide appropriate general advice on physical activity and nutrition in the context of health, performance, and recovery. 2.2.16. Research Methods and Data Analysis. Apply evidence-based practice that considers research evidence, emerging research, professional judgement, and client and service user preference. 3.2.4. Exercise Physiology. Differentiate between the individual and integrated physiological responses and adaptations to acute and chronic exercise under normal conditions, in different environments, and by external influences. 4.2.4. Analyse and interpret information and results from assessments, including the accuracy and limitations of the assessments. 4.2.6. Develop achievable goals with clients and service users and apply evidence-based behavioural strategies according to their needs and preferences to meet their goals. 5.2.1. Apply evidence-based approaches to prescribe, monitor, manage, progress and regress exercise programs based on individual needs, including principles related to growth, development, pregnancy, disability, and ageing. 5.2.3. Interpret and communicate assessment data to inform physical activity and exercise-based approaches, selecting appropriate exercises and equipment based on individual needs and abilities. 5.2.5. Design and manage exercise-based approaches using person-centred behavioural strategies to empower self-management and achieve goals for clients, service users, and relevant others.
	Accredited Exercise Scientist Professional Standards (2022) - 3.2.4. Analyse and interpret physiological data obtained during acute exercise, and compare such data between time points, individuals and populations. 5.2.4. Describe the impact of body proportions on body composition and function. Accredited Exercise Scientist Professional Standards - 2024 - 2.2.15. Research Methods and Data Analysis. 2.2.15 Apply research methods and reports from a range of sources for a thorough understanding of research ethics and methodology in exercise science. 2.2.16. Research Methods and Data Analysis. Apply evidence-based practice that considers research evidence, emerging research, professional judgement, and client and service user preference. 2.2.18. Research Methods and Data Analysis. Compare and contrast research and data with professional judgment to inform decision-making within the practice of exercise science. 3.2.4. Exercise Physiology. Differentiate between the individual and integrated physiological responses and adaptations to acute and chronic exercise under normal conditions, in different environments, and by external influences. 4.2.4. Analyse and interpret information and results from assessments, including the accuracy and limitations of the assessments. 5.2.1. Apply evidence-based approaches to prescribe, monitor, manage, progress and regress exercise programs based on individual needs, including principles related to growth, development, pregnancy, disability, and ageing. 5.2.7. Evaluate and modify coaching methods to improve exercise or movement performance by clients and service users.
	Accredited Exercise Scientist Professional Standards (2022) - 1.2.2. Support clients to meet their goals through the integration and application of the exercise science sub-discipline standards. 1.2.3. Choose and apply a variety of verbal and non-verbal communication methods appropriate to the client and/or population, carers and other health and exercise professionals. 13.2.6. Demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively and respond appropriately to assist clients from diverse populations to change their health and physical activity behaviours. 4.2.6. Identify and explain the common contraindications for participation in exercise and the associated risks. 4.2.9. Evaluate and record client progress during an exercise-based intervention and communicate with the client, and families, carers and other health and exercise professionals where appropriate. 7.2.1. Select and apply appropriate assessment procedures, including screening of appropriate social determinants of health, goal setting, obtaining informed consent and a relevant medical history, and performing a pre-exercise risk assessment and understand when onward referrals are warranted. 7.2.2. Identify and use the common processes and equipment required to conduct accurate and safe health, physical activity and exercise assessments. 7.2.3. Identify and describe the limitations, contraindications or considerations that may require the modification of assessments and make appropriate adjustments for diverse individuals. 7.2.5. Describe the principles and rationale for the calibration of equipment in commonly used in assessments and recognise and recalibrate equipment when required. 7.2.6. Select, develop and conduct appropriate protocols for safe, effective and culturally sensitive assessments including risk management and risk assessment concepts associated with the health and assessment of exercise science. 7.2.7. Identify the need for guidance or further information from an appropriate health professional and recognise when medical supervision is required before or during an assessment and when to cease a test. Accredited Exercise Scientist Professional Standards - 2024 - 1.2.1. Develop reflective practices through critically evaluating service delivery and outcomes and commit to ongoing learning. 1.2.2. Practice with integrity within the AES scope of practice and the ESSA Code of Professional Conduct and Ethical Practice, promote professional capabilities, and judge when to refer onwards. 1.2.3. Practice in line with relevant legislation and regulations including Australian Privacy Legislation, confidentiality, data security, informed consent, record-keeping, note taking and documentation. 1.2.4. Practice inclusively, respecting diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, gender and sexually diverse persons, persons of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and those living with a disability. 1.2.5. Select and apply contextually appropriate verbal and non-verbal communication strategies in a timely and respectful manner to engage effectively with clients, service users, colleagues, and relevant others. 1.2.6. Practice collaboratively within intraprofessional, interprofessional, and multidisciplinary teams, incorporating diverse perspectives and expertise to effectively address whole-person health and human performance needs.

Accredited Exercise Scientist Professional Standards - 2024 -

Competency code	Taught, Practiced or Assessed	Competency standard
1.1		Guiding principle. An AES applies exercise science knowledge and skills to safely and effectively practice in a professional, ethical, inclusive, and collaborative manner across a range of exercise science contexts. Elements of Professional Practice
1.2.1		Develop reflective practices through critically evaluating service delivery and outcomes and commit to ongoing learning.
1.2.2		Practice with integrity within the AES scope of practice and the ESSA Code of Professional Conduct and Ethical Practice, promote professional capabilities, and judge when to refer onwards.
1.2.3		Practice in line with relevant legislation and regulations including Australian Privacy Legislation, confidentiality, data security, informed consent, record-keeping, note taking and documentation.
1.2.4		Practice inclusively, respecting diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, gender and sexually diverse persons, persons of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and those living with a disability.
1.2.5		Select and apply contextually appropriate verbal and non-verbal communication strategies in a timely and respectful manner to engage effectively with clients, service users, colleagues, and relevant others.
1.2.6		Practice collaboratively within intraprofessional, interprofessional, and multidisciplinary teams, incorporating diverse perspectives and expertise to effectively address whole-person health and human performance needs.
2.2.11		Physical Activity, Sedentary Behaviour and Nutrition 2.2.11 Identify and use current Australian guidelines to provide appropriate general advice on physical activity and nutrition in the context of health, performance, and recovery.
2.2.13		Physical Activity, Sedentary Behaviour and Nutrition. Describe the basic functions of macronutrients and micronutrients, their common sources, and their role in energy balance, and general health and well-being.
2.2.14		Physical Activity, Sedentary Behaviour and Nutrition. Recognise signs of inappropriate dietary behaviours and energy availability in relation to physical activity and exercise requirements across a range of health and performance contexts and identify appropriate referral options.
2.2.16		Research Methods and Data Analysis. Apply evidence-based practice that considers research evidence, emerging research, professional judgement, and client and service user preference.
2.2.18		Research Methods and Data Analysis. Compare and contrast research and data with professional judgment to inform decision-making within the practice of exercise science.
2.2.2		Anatomy and Physiology. Use anatomical terms to describe position, movement, body direction, regions, and body planes.
2.2.3		Anatomy and Physiology. Describe the function and interaction of physiological systems and how they respond to movement.
2.2.7		Anatomy and Physiology. Interpret the impact of body proportions and body composition on health and performance.
3.2.11		Motor Learning and Control. Apply theoretical perspectives and principles of motor learning and control to design or choose evidence based assessments for the evaluation of motor abilities and performance.
3.2.12		Motor Learning and Control. Apply motor learning principles to design appropriate approaches and deliver plans to facilitate the learning process for both individuals and groups across diverse population groups.
3.2.3		Biomechanics. Apply principles of functional anatomy and biomechanics to critically analyse movement patterns and identify strategies to enhance performance, identify deficiencies, and minimise injury risk across a range of contexts and populations.
3.2.4		Exercise Physiology. Differentiate between the individual and integrated physiological responses and adaptations to acute and chronic exercise under normal conditions, in different environments, and by external influences.
3.2.5		Exercise Physiology. Analyse and interpret physiological data obtained during acute exercise, and compare that data between time points, individuals, populations and environments.
3.2.6		Health and Behaviour. Examine how physical activity, exercise, and sedentary behaviour influence the development and management of physical health, mental health and well-being.
3.2.7		Health and Behaviour. Examine socioecological determinants and apply theories of physical activity and exercise to support behaviour change and maintenance.
3.2.8		Health and Behaviour. Formulate effective communication strategies and respond appropriately to assist clients and service users from diverse populations to develop and maintain appropriate health and physical activity behaviours.
4.2.1		Explain the scientific rationale, reliability, validity, assumptions, and limitations of common health and exercise assessments and select appropriate equipment and digital practices based on individual needs.
4.2.2		Apply informed consent procedures, gather relevant medical and activity history, and conduct a pre-exercise risk assessment to ensure safety and suitability for activity.
4.2.3		Design and apply appropriate, culturally sensitive, and evidence-based assessments, including screening and management of risk, and identification of socio-ecological determinants of health.
4.2.4		Analyse and interpret information and results from assessments, including the accuracy and limitations of the assessments.
4.2.5		Evaluate, document, report, and respond to evolving risk factors and adverse signs and symptoms throughout assessments and approaches.
4.2.6		Develop achievable goals with clients and service users and apply evidence-based behavioural strategies according to their needs and preferences to meet their goals.
4.2.7		Select effective communication strategies, including interpreting or explaining normative data where appropriate, to support clients and service users from diverse populations in understanding assessment outcomes.
5.2.1		Apply evidence-based approaches to prescribe, monitor, manage, progress and regress exercise programs based on individual needs, including principles related to growth, development, pregnancy, disability, and ageing.
5.2.3		Interpret and communicate assessment data to inform physical activity and exercise-based approaches, selecting appropriate exercises and equipment based on individual needs and abilities.
5.2.4		Identify and manage adverse signs and symptoms during activities, taking appropriate actions to manage them.
5.2.5		Design and manage exercise-based approaches using person-centred behavioural strategies to empower self-management and achieve goals for clients, service users, and relevant others.
5.2.6		Select and apply appropriate digital practices and equipment for both in-person and remote service delivery, including telepractice.
5.2.7		Evaluate and modify coaching methods to improve exercise or movement performance by clients and service users.

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

In response to staff and student review of previous offerings, the assessment structure has been revised to improve student learning, feedback and assessment integrity. The unit now includes an early low-stakes quiz to provide students with timely feedback on foundational content. Case notes, client reports and exercise instruction tasks have been moved into in-class competency checklists, allowing students to receive progressive feedback and demonstrate development of applied skills across semester. The 6-week exercise program has been retained, with an added justification component to strengthen students鈥� applied reasoning and decision-making. Reflection has also been integrated into the supervised practical assessments, allowing students to reflect on their learning and performance in a more authentic, face-to-face setting. These changes are intended to better support student engagement, practical skill development and individual accountability.

Additional information

This unit of study may require you to attend a teaching activity timetabled in teaching venues installed with the University鈥檚 Clinical Recording and Observation System (CROS) in the Susan Wakil Health Building. Students should be aware of the privacy and information management implications of this system. For more information, please refer to the University鈥檚 Privacy Statement.

Work, health and safety

Please complete the 鈥淲HS Practical Induction Checklist (EXSS and EP)鈥� in the 鈥淨uizzes鈥� section on Canvas in your first practical class with your tutor.

Students are required to wear appropriate exercise clothing for all practical classes including closed-in shoes.

Disclaimer

Important: the 爆料王 regularly reviews units of study and reserves the right to change the units of study available annually. To stay up to date on available study options, including unit of study details and availability, refer to the relevant handbook.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an .

爆料王

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Alignment with Competency standards

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

EXSS2034: Exercise Programming and Delivery

Semester 2, 2026 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Alignment with Competency standards

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links