Applied Performance Nutrition
Module 2 of the Certificate of Integrative Sports Nutrition and the Level 7 Diploma in Integrative Sport and Exercise Nutrition
Immerse yourself in the world of wholesome nourishment for health-based performance
Module 2 of the Certificate of Integrative Sports Nutrition and the Level 7 Diploma in Integrative Sport and Exercise Nutrition
Immerse yourself in the world of wholesome nourishment for health-based performance
Performance nutrition has more of a quantitative approach to it than the integrative body systems module, and rightly so: as practitioners we need to ensure our athletes are consuming enough fuel for the demands of their chosen exercise and daily activities. But we also need to bring personalisation into this way of thinking because not every athlete’s body responds well to the prevailing high-carb dogma, nor does it always resonate with ketogenic alternatives. Additionally, to fully support the busy biochemistry of our active clients, food quality is absolutely essential for micronutrient and phytonutrient provision.
This module, which is module 2 of our Certificate and Diploma courses, is an immersion into nutrition for sport and exercise performance. During this module we consider the prevailing view of performance nutrition and combine this with our integrative body systems approach, plus a healthy dose of active physiological support from deeply nourishing food. It is led by Ian Craig, who has been applying this theoretical knowledge into the sporting lives of his clients for the past twenty years.
This module consists of eight weeks of study and discussion: live Zoom tutorials are delivered each week (recorded in case you can’t make it), plus you have the chance to interact with your tutors and peers on our online educational platform.
Learning outcomes for this module:
Who's is it for?
Applied Performance Nutrition is the second of our core units in our certification course and can also be studied as a standalone module. It is aimed at nutrition and exercise professionals, and final-year and postgraduate students, ideally within the nutrition and/or exercise fields.
The module is also open to individuals without a degree who can demonstrate a portfolio of sufficient prior knowledge and experience. Practitioner experience is a bonus but not a necessity.
Course attendees who are already functionally trained (such as nutritional therapists and functional medicine practitioners) will receive applied training within a sporting context. Individuals who are already trained in a sporting context (such as sports dieticians and sports scientists) will get the opportunity to apply their existing knowledge within an applied integrative body systems perspective.
All course participants will have plenty of opportunity to develop their practitioner skills.
Module content
Applied Performance Nutrition
The applied performance nutrition module consists of eight weeks of pre-recorded lectures, weekly tutorial interaction with your course leader, Ian Craig, the study of educational materials, and interaction with tutors and peers online.
Lecture content
Session 1 opens with a detailed and comprehensive discussion exploring the rich history of calories, as well as the practical methods and approaches involved in estimating them on a day-to-day basis. Particular attention is given to developing a strong emphasis on the importance of identifying, recognising, and effectively working with the many common errors and inaccuracies that frequently arise during the assessment process.
In addition, we also take the time to explore the gold-standard laboratory methods and techniques used for metabolic analysis. This includes a look at professional nutrition software solutions, alongside a range of modern, app-based alternatives that are readily available in today’s digital landscape.
Tutorial case-study discussion
In the tutorial, we review the case of an active client struggling with her body composition despite her consumption of a hypocaloric diet. This is an opportunity for the class to apply their collective knowledge and discuss intervening nutrition and lifestyle strategies for the client.
Lecture content
Session 2 takes a detailed and thorough look at the various common methods used for assessing body composition, while also examining the typical inconsistencies and frequent sources of error that are commonly associated with these measurement techniques.
In the tutorial, we come together as a group to engage in a comprehensive and collaborative discussion around a wide range of practical nutrition and lifestyle strategies. These strategies are designed to be particularly helpful in supporting clients as they work towards modifying their body composition in a way that is fully aligned with their goals.
Lecture content
Session 3 kicks off with a comprehensive and in-depth review of what is arguably the most extensively written-about and widely discussed area within the entire field of sports nutrition: the topic of macronutrients, or macros as they are commonly referred to. Following this, we then take the time to carefully extrapolate and translate the key findings from the research literature cited on carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, placing them firmly into the real-world context of an athlete’s daily life, training demands, and specific sporting goals.
Tutorial case-study discussion
In the tutorial, we engage in an in-depth debate around the popular concept of ‘train-low, compete-high’, exploring its underlying principles, potential benefits, limitations, and practical applications in real-world athletic training. We also take the time to discuss fuelling strategies for a Masters track cyclist, analysing how these approaches are tailored to support health-based performance, recovery, and overall training demands in the context of an older, competitive athlete.
Lecture content
Session 4 provides a comprehensive review of the key micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) that play an essential role in supporting athletic performance as well as promoting optimal physiological function in athletes.
Following this, we explore the area of phytonutrition, looking at the wide range of plant-derived bioactive compounds and their potential benefits. We also take the time to consider in detail why it is so important for athletes to place a strong emphasis on nutritional density and dietary diversity throughout their daily lives, and how these principles can meaningfully contribute to long-term health, recovery, and performance.
Tutorial case-study discussion
In the tutorial, we take a detailed and insightful look at the unique performance challenges faced by a female road cyclist. We carefully examine her situation through the combined lens of functional testing and a focused micro-nutrition perspective, exploring how these approaches can be effectively utilised to better understand her individual needs and provide targeted support for her sporting goals and overall athletic demands.
Lecture content
Session 5 takes us into a highly practical and detailed consideration of what to feed an athlete before, during, and after a hard training session or competitive effort.
In addition to exploring exactly ‘what’ to eat or drink, we also dedicate time to examining the critical question of ‘when’ these nutrients should be consumed, all within the broader scientific framework of nutrient timing and its impact on performance and recovery.
A particular highlight of this session is a thorough discussion focusing on the creation of effective DIY sports drinks, recovery beverages, and energy gels. These practical, homemade options are specifically designed to nourish the body effectively while avoiding the common pitfall of depleting energy stores, providing sustained fuel and support throughout demanding athletic endeavours.
Tutorial case-study discussion
In the tutorial, we work through a comprehensive case study of an ultramarathon runner who is diligently preparing for the iconic Comrades Marathon in South Africa. We explore the unique physiological, nutritional, and strategic challenges associated with this demanding ultra-distance event, examining how tailored approaches can support the runner’s preparation, performance, and recovery in the build-up to this notoriously gruelling race.
Lecture content
Session 6 is presented by Andy Blow, a highly experienced athlete and coach who has dedicated his entire professional career to deepening our understanding of fluid dynamics and hydration in sporting individuals.
In this session, Andy provides a clear and insightful outline of the historical beliefs and long-standing assumptions surrounding hydration needs in athletes. He then skilfully combines these traditional views with the modern-day physiological research, offering a comprehensive exploration of individualised fluid and salt requirements during various forms of sporting activity. Particular emphasis is placed on how athletes can better understand and manage their personal hydration strategies to support optimal performance and recovery.
Tutorial case-study discussion
In the tutorial, we take a look at the challenging and often debilitating cramping problems faced by a competitive basketball player when competing under the prolonged physical and mental pressures of tournament conditions. We analyse the various contributing factors and work through practical, evidence-based strategies to help reduce the frequency and severity of cramps.
Lecture content
Module dates
Applied Performance Nutrition
Now accepting applications for our next running of this module, starting on the 16th of April 2024!
Module start dates for 2024: 11 January, 16 April and 5 September
10% Discount for:
Next module start date:
16th of April 2024 at 1pm UK time
Exclusive offer
monthly for 3 months
Regular Price – £ 699
Sign up for this exciting short course
Seats are limited
Right of Admission Reserved – T’s & C’s Apply
Get the free
E-BOOK
Series