Neuromuscular adaptation, strength training, and body composition in clinical and research settings
Doctoral School in Medicine, Biomedical Science and Technology at Aalborg University
This PhD course provides an integrated understanding of neuromuscular adaptations to strength training, clinical applications of resistance-based interventions, and the assessment of body composition and bone health. It is designed for PhD students working in clinical, biomedical, or sports science domains who aim to apply strength training principles in both healthy and clinical populations.
Maintaining muscle function, muscle mass, and bone mineral density is increasingly recognized as essential for healthy aging, disease prevention, and recovery from illness. Sarcopenia and osteoporosis are major contributors to frailty, falls, and loss of independence in older adults, while muscle dysfunction is a key factor in chronic disease progression and reduced quality of life. This course addresses these critical health issues by equipping students with the knowledge and tools to assess and intervene effectively.
The course will cover:
- Mechanisms of neuromuscular adaptation to resistance training
- Design and evaluation of strength training interventions in clinical populations (e.g., cancer, chronic pain, aging)
- Assessment of muscle activity and function using EMG and dynamometry
- Body composition analysis using DXA, BIA, and anthropometry
- Bone mineral density (BMD) assessment and interpretation in health and disease
- Translational aspects: from lab-based findings to real-world implementation
The course includes lectures, hands-on workshops, and group discussions. Participants will also engage in critical appraisal of intervention studies and develop a mini-protocol for a training-based study.
For additional information, updates, and registration, please refer to AAU PhD Moodle via the link provided on the right side of this page.