This chapter introduces sports physiology for coaches by defining key terms like anatomy, physiology, and sports physiology. It discusses how the body responds both immediately and long term to exercise through training stimuli. The chapter emphasizes that understanding sports physiology provides a foundation for developing effective athlete training programs and satisfying coaching success. It advises coaches to choose reliable sources for sports physiology information and favors experimental research.

1. Chapter 1
Introduction to
Sports Physiology
for Coaches

2. Definitions
• Anatomy
– The study of the shape and structure of the body and
all of its parts as well as their relationships to each
other.
• Physiology
– The study of the body and how it works
• Sports Physiology
– The study of how the body deals with the effects of
exercise
– Immediate – Heart Rate, respiration etc.
– Long term – Adaptations in structure and function

3. Training
• Stimulus
– Activity that brings about specific training effects
• Effects
– Physiological changes brought on by training
• Program
– A plan devised to achieve specific training effects
• Annual program
– A program that guides a year of training

4. Why is this Important for Coaches?
• Foundation for athlete development
• Create training programs the elicit results
• Athletes trust a knowledgeable coach
• Prepared to answer athlete questions
• Satisfying for a coach to see success.

5. Sources of Information
• Books
• Magazines
• Clinics
• Web
• Other coaches
• Research
* Be careful of products or programs that offer easy
solutions and quick fixes.

6. Choose Wisely
• Take your information from a reliable source.
– Remember some of the muscle / fitness
magazines that you can purchase at the grocery
store might not always be a good source of
information.
• Avoid sources that are trying to sell you
something. Everyone wants your money.
• Choose good sources.

7. Research
• Status
– A comparison study
• Correlation
– A study that determines relationships
• Experimental
– A study where a variable is randomly assigned and
tested for its effectiveness.

8. Research
Research How’s done? Proof of cause and effect
Status Compares groups No
Correlation Determines relationships No
Experimental Manipulates variables Yes