Learning Objectives
- Describe the J-shaped model of upper respiratory tract infection risk and exercise volume.
- Evaluate the evidence concerning moderate exercise and upper respiratory tract infection risk.
- Evaluate the evidence concerning heavy exercise and upper respiratory tract infection risk.
- Describe the components and actions of humoral and cell-mediated immune mechanisms.
- Distinguish between in vitro and in vivo measures of immune function.
- Describe the principle of ELISA methods to measure the concentration of specific soluble proteins in body fluids.
- Appreciate the diversity of in vitro immune cell functions that can be assessed by flow cytometry.
- Understand in outline how phagocyte oxidative burst activity, natural killer cell cytolytic activity, lymphocyte proliferation and cytokine production can be quantified.
- Describe two measures of immune function that can be assessed in vivo.
- Describe some practical guidelines about training when suffering from infection and recovery from infection.
- Explain how acute maximal exercise and moderate intensity training programs influence immune function and risk of upper respiratory tract infection in older people.
- Appreciate the effect of acute and regular exercise on immune function in children.
- Appreciate the effect of regular exercise and weight loss on immune function in obese individuals.
- Understand the possible association between exercise and immune function in diabetic patients.
BOC: 3.75 Continuing Education Units
NATA PDC Level of Difficulty: Advanced
Program Faculty: Course content includes chapters 1, 2, 3, 12 and 13, of the book “Immune Function in Sport and Exercise” by Michael Gleeson, BSc, PhD. Assessment created by Rachel Livingstone MA, AT, and Susan Callagy MA, AT, PTA, CSCS.
The passing score for this course is 80%. The course is self-paced, home study format. All materials are available ONLINE immediately after purchase and is available for 6 months.
Cancellation/refund available up to 30 days after purchase. For further information visit our How Courses Work page.
This course is intended for Certified Athletic Trainers, Physical Therapists, Strength & Conditioning Specialists, etc.

Sport Medics is approved by the Board of Certification, Inc. to offer continuing education to Certified Athletic Trainers.