Integrative Neuromuscular Performance

2026-2027

Algemene informatie

Vakcode B_INTNP
Studiepunten 6 EC
Periode P1
Vakniveau 400
Onderwijstaal Engels
Faculteit Fac. der Gedrags- en Bewegingswetensch.
Vakcoördinator dr. C.J. de Ruiter
Examinator dr. C.J. de Ruiter
Docenten dr. C.J. de Ruiter
dr. R.P. Goulding
Onderdeel van opleiding(en)

Praktische informatie

Voor dit vak moet je zelf intekenen. De inteken- en afmeldtermijnen staan op VU.nl

Voor dit vak geldt een maximum aantal deelnemers van 110.

Onderwijsvorm Werkgroep
Dit vak wordt in het Engels aangeboden. Omschrijvingen kunnen daardoor mogelijk alleen in het Engels worden weergegeven.

Doel vak


After successful completion of the course, students can:


1. Analyse and explain how muscle contractile properties and

neuromuscular activation patterns interact to influence power production at

the single-fibre, muscle, and whole-body levels.


2. Explain how convective oxygen transport, oxygen diffusion, and

mitochondrial oxidative capacity jointly determine sustainable

power output.


3.Analyse and interpret how fatigue, muscle energetics, and metabolite

accumulation affect power production dynamics during exercise.


4. Explain how some of the most crucial methods can be used to gain

insight into fundamental aspects of neuromuscular power production.



Inhoud vak

This course provides the essential scientific

foundation for the second and third courses in the sequence. It introduces the

fundamental principles necessary for understanding advanced concepts addressed

later in the program. A solid grasp of the material covered in this course is

therefore crucial for successful progression within the curriculum.

Human movement emerges from the dynamic

interplay between muscle cell mechanics (such as cross-bridge cycling), neural

activation (controlling fibre recruitment and contraction speed), and cellular

bioenergetics (sustaining force and power). These processes are supported by

the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, which deliver oxygen and remove

metabolic by-products. Performance is shaped by the continuous interaction of

contractile mechanics, neuromuscular control, energetics, oxygen transport, and

fatigue, with both maximal instantaneous power and sustainable long-duration

power governed by distinct yet overlapping mechanisms. Mastering these

principles is essential for advancing research and applying evidence-based

practices in sports, rehabilitation, and health, ultimately enhancing athletic

performance, rehabilitation, healthy aging, and disease prevention.

Aanvullende informatie onderwijsvormen

Slidecast presentations

Plenary work group meetings

Toetsvorm

Written examination consisting of open-ended questions

Vereiste voorkennis

Registration in specialisation Physiology of Human Performance and Health

Aanvullende informatie doelgroep

This course is connected to the learning trajectories:

Theory of Human Movement Sciences

Academic and Research Skills