At the end of the course, students will be able to:
Knowledge and understanding • define what a sport gesture is and describe its biomechanical and neurophysiological components; • understand motor control mechanisms and coordination strategies in sport.
Applying knowledge • perform basic functional assessment of a sport gesture (observation, ROM, motor control, functional symmetry); • identify altered movement patterns or biomechanical inefficiencies; • select appropriate exercises based on observed deficits.
Making judgements • develop essential clinical reasoning and justify the choice of tests and exercise progressions.
Communication • clearly describe observed movements using proper terminology.
Learning skills • integrate scientific evidence into movement analysis and continuously update observational criteria.
Course Prerequisites
Students should have basic knowledge of functional anatomy, neuromuscular physiology, and joint biomechanics. They should also be able to recognise fundamental movement patterns and perform basic musculoskeletal clinical tests learned during the first year.
Teaching Methods
Interactive lectures with multimedia presentations, real-time video analysis, peer practical sessions and guided discussions. Use of observational checklists, case simulations, clinical reasoning tasks and immediate feedback during practice. Active and experiential learning approach.
Oral exam (30%) • Questions about biomechanics, motor control and functional evaluation principles.
Passing grade: ≥ 18/30.
Texts
• Cook G. Movement – Functional Movement Systems, On Target, latest edition. • Kisner – Colby. Therapeutic Exercise, F.A. Davis, latest edition. • McGill S. Low Back Disorders, Human Kinetics, latest edition. • Selected scientific articles from JOSPT, IADMS, BJSM (provided during the course).
Contents
• Definition of sport gesture: components, phases, motor control • Neurophysiological basis of voluntary movement • Key elements of biomechanics (angles, levers, timing, symmetry) • Observational movement assessment: criteria and priorities • Basic functional tests (squat, lunge, step-up, push-pull, jump) • Applied sport gesture analysis: running, jumping, change of direction • Exercise progression introduction: mobility → motor control → strength → plyometrics • Practical sessions in small groups • Clinical reasoning applied to mini sport cases
Course Language
Italian
More information
Practical activities are carried out in pairs or small groups. Attendance and appropriate clothing are required. Teaching materials available on KIRO.
