Psychosocial Aspects of Health and Physical Activity

This unit (SPE3100) explores the range of psychosocial influences on health, physical activity, sport and exercise contexts in contemporary society. Students will examine sociological, historical, and psychological concepts that influence health and physical activity including interactions of personal, social and environmental factors. Topics include the relationship between health and physical activity, psychosocial and health benefits of physical activity participation, physical activity across the lifespan, theories of physical activity participation, physical activity and health promotion interventions and initiatives, inclusiveness and diversity in physical activity, methods of assessing physical activity and sedentary behaviour, national physical activity and sedentary behaviour guidelines, and the role of organisations in promoting physical activity and health. Understanding is developed through researching, analysing, applying contemporary practices in health and movement fields. Students will gain authentic practical experience of recreational and lifelong physical activities underpinning delivery of movement experiences and engagement in health and physical activity such as aquatics, challenge and adventure activities, minor games and modified sports. The unit will enable students to implement psychosocial understandings of lifelong health and participation in physical activity into practice within physical education and exercise and sport science.