Applied Sports Medicine

Course Description

This course is designed to offer students an overview of various sports medicine topics, with a focus on practical application. Students will build foundational knowledge about the field of sports medicine and gain an understanding of how to support the health, safety, and performance of athletes in a variety of settings. Students will gain hands-on experience in preventing, assessing, and treating sports-related injuries. Key course topics include basic anatomy related to sports injuries, rehabilitation techniques, conditioning and injury prevention, sports psychology, and sports nutrition. Students will also have the opportunity to gain certification in First Aid/CPR/AED.

Course Big Ideas

Understanding human anatomy, physiology, and movement is essential for effective injury prevention and care.
Sports medicine professionals play a critical role in promoting athlete health, safety, and performance.
Proper injury assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation rely on both scientific knowledge and practical skill.
Psychological, nutritional, and ethical factors influence athletic performance and recovery.

Course Essential Questions

How do sports medicine professionals protect and support athletes before, during, and after injury?
What role does anatomy and physiology play in injury evaluation and emergency response?
How do we determine appropriate treatment, rehabilitation, and return-to-play protocols?
In what ways do psychological factors influence recovery and performance?
How do nutrition and substance choices impact athletic health and achievement?

Course Competencies

Demonstrate knowledge of human anatomy and physiology as it relates to sports performance and injury.
Demonstrate foundational skills in injury prevention, emergency care, and immediate response.
Perform basic first aid, CPR, and AED skills in emergency situations.
Apply the principles of injury evaluation, treatment, and rehabilitation through hands-on practice.
Design conditioning and injury-prevention programs tailored to specific athletes or sports.
Analyze the psychological and nutritional factors that affect performance and recovery.
Evaluate ethical considerations and professional responsibilities within the field of sports medicine.

Course Assessments

Formative Assessments
Summative Assessments
Project-Based assessments
Practical application

Course Units

Unit 1: Foundations of Sports Medicine

Standards

National Health Science Standards

4.3.1 Research Levels of Education: Credentialing requirements, and employment trends in health professions.
5.1.1 Analyze legal responsibilities and implications of criminal and civil law.
5.2.1 Apply standards for the safety, privacy, and confidentiality of health information.
6.1.1 Differentiate between ethical and legal issues impacting healthcare.
6.1.2 Identify ethical issues and their implications related to healthcare.
7.1.1 Explain principles of infection transmission.

Know

Integrity, respect, and compassion in patient care.
Ethical reasoning in healthcare scenarios.
Structure and purpose of healthcare delivery systems (public, private, nonprofit, government).
Roles and functions of healthcare facilities (hospitals, clinics, long-term care, home health).
Levels of education for healthcare careers (certificate, associate, bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral).
Credentialing processes — certification, registration, licensure, and continuing education.
Legal responsibilities and implications of criminal and civil law in healthcare.
Standards for safety, privacy, and confidentiality of health information.

Understanding/Key Learning

Ethical behavior, integrity, and compassion are foundational to quality patient care and professional practice.
Healthcare systems and facilities function together to deliver services that meet diverse patient and community needs.
Education, credentialing, and lifelong learning support competency, growth, and accountability in healthcare professions.
Understanding and following laws, regulations, and standards ensure safety, privacy, and ethical practice in healthcare.

Do

Identify the importance of integrity, respect, and compassion in patient care amongst different health care professions.
Apply ethical reasoning to realistic healthcare scenarios.
Explain the structure and purpose of different types of healthcare delivery systems (e.g., public, private, nonprofit, government).
Identify the roles and functions of various healthcare facilities (e.g., hospitals, clinics, long-term care, home health).
Distinguish between different levels of education for healthcare careers (certificate, associate, bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral).
Identify the credentialing process: certification, registration, licensure, and continuing education.
Analyze legal responsibilities and implications of criminal and civil law related to healthcare.
Apply standards for the safety, privacy, and confidentiality of health information.

Unit Essential Questions

How do education and credentialing contribute to professional competence and credibility in healthcare?
In what ways do continuing education and certification reflect professional accountability?
What are the consequences of failing to follow legal and ethical standards in healthcare?
How can healthcare professionals demonstrate integrity, respect, and compassion when providing patient care?
Why are education, credentialing, and ongoing professional development essential for maintaining competence and accountability in healthcare careers?

Lesson Essential Questions

What is the difference between certification, registration, and licensure, and how does each validate a healthcare professional’s qualifications?
What are examples of professional organizations that require ongoing certification or renewal of credentials?
What are examples of legal violations that could result in loss of licensure or criminal charges for healthcare workers?
How does maintaining honesty and transparency with patients reflect integrity in professional practice?

Materials/Resources

NCHSE - National Consortium for Health Science Education
NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine
NSCA - National Strength and Conditioning Association
Professional job search tools (e.g., Indeed.com) for career research and employment readiness
Multimedia instructional content, including PowerPoint lectures and curated online video resources
Approved materials aligned with nationally recognized healthcare certification standards

1.1.1 Human Anatomy and Physiology: Describe the organization of the human body and directional terms.
1.1.2 Identify basic structures: Describe functions of human body systems.
1.2.1 Diseases and Disorders: Describe etiology, pathology, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of common diseases and disorders.
7.1.1 Explain principles of infection transmission.

Academic Standards for Health, Safety, and Physical Education

10.3.12.B Analyze and apply strategies for the management of injuries (CPR, advanced first aid).

Know

Organization of the human body: cells, tissues, organs, organ systems.
Directional and regional anatomical terms (anterior, posterior, medial, lateral, proximal, distal, etc.).
Basic human body systems and their primary functions: Circulatory, Respiratory, Digestive, Nervous, Musculoskeletal.
Common diseases and disorders: etiology, pathology, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
Principles of infection transmission and disease prevention.
Strategies for injury management including CPR, first aid, and emergency response.
Components and purpose of an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and the importance of coordination with EMS.

Understanding/Key Learning

Knowledge of anatomy and physiology allows for accurate assessment and treatment of patients.
Understanding body systems and disease processes is essential for preventing illness and promoting health.
Infection control and injury management are critical to patient and provider safety.
Proper application of CPR and first aid can save lives and reduce complications from injuries or medical emergencies.
A structured Emergency Action Plan and prompt medical response are critical to athlete safety.

Do

Develop and describe a comprehensive Emergency Action Plan (EAP) specific to an athletic venue and integrated with local EMS.
Describe the organization of the human body using directional and regional terminology.
Identify major body structures and systems and explain their functions.
Explain etiology, pathology, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention for common diseases and disorders.
Apply principles of infection transmission prevention in realistic healthcare scenarios.
Demonstrate injury management skills, including CPR and advanced first aid techniques.
Analyze and respond to emergency situations using appropriate safety protocols.

Unit Essential Questions

Lesson Essential Questions

What are the major human body systems, and how do their functions interrelate?
How do directional and anatomical terms help healthcare professionals communicate accurately?
What are the common causes, symptoms, and treatments of frequent diseases and disorders?
How can proper infection control prevent the spread of disease in healthcare settings?
What steps should be taken to safely manage injuries and provide emergency care?
Why is a well-developed Emergency Action Plan critical in athletic settings?

10.4.12.C Evaluate how changes in adult health status may affect the responses of the body systems during moderate to vigorous physical activity.
10.4.12.E Analyze the interrelationships among regular participation in physical activity, motor skill improvement and the selection and engagement in lifetime physical activities.
10.5.12.B Incorporate and synthesize knowledge of motor skill development concepts to improve the quality of motor skills.

National Athletic Trainer’s Association: Appropriate Medical Care Standards for Organizations

8.1. Comprehensive athletic emergency action plan (EAP) is established and integrated with local EMS per athletic venue.
9. On-site prevention, recognition, evaluation and immediate care of athletic injuries and illnesses are provided with appropriate medical referrals.
10.1, 10.3. On-site therapeutic intervention (pre-, post-, and non-surgical conditions) outcomes are optimized by developing, evaluating and updating a plan of care for athletes.

Know

The body’s physiological responses to exercise and how changes in health status affect performance.
The structure and function of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems as they relate to injury and movement.
Common types of tissue injuries (sprains, strains, fractures, contusions) and region-specific injuries (upper extremity, chest/abdomen, pelvis/lower extremity, head/spine).
Steps in the HOPS (History, Observation, Palpation, Special Tests) injury evaluation process.
Proper documentation using SOAP (Subjective, Objective, Assessment, Plan) notes.
Basic splinting, wrapping, and taping techniques for injury management and support.
Principles of motor skill development and how practice and feedback improve movement quality.
The relationship between physical activity, motor proficiency, and lifelong health.

Understanding/Key Learning

Understanding anatomy, physiology, and injury mechanisms support accurate injury diagnosis and effective care.
The HOPS and SOAP methods provide systematic approaches to injury evaluation and documentation.
Proper splinting, wrapping, and taping techniques prevent further injury and aid recovery.
Motor skill development and consistent physical activity enhance athletic performance and lifelong health.
Evaluating body system responses to exercise allows for safe participation and progression in physical activity.

Do

Demonstrate injury evaluation using the HOPS process for various body regions (upper/lower extremities, head, spine, chest, abdomen, pelvis).
Record findings using SOAP notes to document assessment and plan of care.
Identify and classify common tissue injuries and describe appropriate immediate care and referral procedures.
Apply SAM splinting techniques to stabilize injuries to the extremities.
Demonstrate proper wrapping and taping for injury prevention and support.
Explain how health status changes (e.g., illness, chronic conditions, recovery) alter physiological responses to exercise.
Analyze how regular physical activity improves motor skills and supports long-term engagement in active lifestyles.
Incorporate motor skill development concepts to refine and enhance movement performance.

Unit Essential Questions

How do health status and body system function influence an individual’s response to physical activity?
How does accurate injury recognition and evaluation impact recovery and long-term performance?
In what ways do motor skill development and regular physical activity contribute to lifelong wellness?
How can prevention, evaluation, and care of athletic injuries promote safe participation in sports and exercise?

Lesson Essential Questions

What are the signs and symptoms of common injuries to different body regions?
How do the HOPS and SOAP methods support accurate and consistent injury assessment?
What are the correct procedures for SAM splinting, wrapping, and taping to prevent or stabilize injuries?
How does the body respond to moderate and vigorous activity under different health conditions?
How do regular practice and feedback influence the improvement of motor skills and movement efficiency?

Materials/Resources

NATA – National Athletic Trainers’ Association
NFHS – National Federation of State High School Associations (EAP and safety guidelines)
Anatomical models or virtual anatomy tools
Athletic taping and wrapping supplies (elastic wrap, pre-wrap, athletic tape, SAM splints)
Multimedia instructional content (videos demonstrating HOPS, SOAP, splinting, taping)
Local EMS and athletic trainer collaboration resources
Approved injury evaluation and care checklists

10: On-site therapeutic intervention (pre-, post-, and non-surgical conditions) outcomes are optimized by developing, evaluating and updating a plan of care for athletes.

PA Academic Standards for Health, Safety, and Physical Education

10.1.12.E. Identify and analyze factors that influence the prevention and control of health problems.

(technology).

Know

Overview of therapeutic modalities: heat, cold, electrical stimulation, ultrasound.
Indications, contraindications, and clinical applications for each modality.
Phases of rehabilitation: acute, subacute, and return-to-play/functional phases.
Factors that influence rehabilitation outcomes, including injury type, athlete compliance, and technology-assisted interventions.
Safety protocols, precautions, and best practices for modality application.

Understanding/Key Learning

Proper selection and application of therapeutic modalities can optimize recovery and minimize complications.
Understanding indications and contraindications is essential for safe and effective treatment.
Knowledge of rehabilitation phases supports planning, monitoring, and progression of athlete care.
Integrating technology and evidence-based practice improves injury prevention, assessment, and recovery outcomes.

Do

Describe the purpose, benefits, and risks of different therapeutic modalities (heat, cold, electrical stimulation, ultrasound).
Identify and explain the clinical indications and contraindications for each modality.
Compare and contrast the phases of rehabilitation and determine appropriate interventions for each phase.
Develop, evaluate, and adjust a plan of care for an athlete, incorporating therapeutic modalities and rehabilitation strategies.
Apply therapeutic modalities safely in simulated or controlled settings, following protocols and precautions.
Analyze athlete response and recovery to guide progression through rehabilitation phases.

Unit Essential Questions

Lesson Essential Questions

What are the different types of therapeutic modalities used in sports medicine, and how do they support recovery?
How does each modality affect the body at the cellular and tissue level?
How do clinicians determine when to use a specific therapeutic modality?
What are the distinct phases of rehabilitation, and what goals should be achieved in each phase?
What factors should be monitored to ensure the rehabilitation plan of care is effective and safe?

7: Wellness programs promote a safe progression of physical fitness and improve long-term health across an athlete’s lifespan.
10: On-site therapeutic intervention (pre-, post-, and non-surgical conditions) outcomes are optimized by developing, evaluating and updating a plan of care for athletes.

PA Academic Standards for Health, Safety and Physical Education

10.4.12.A. Evaluate and engage in an individualized physical activity plan that supports achievement of personal fitness and activity goals and promotes life-long participation.
10.5.12.D. Incorporate and synthesize knowledge of exercise principles, training principles and health and skill-related fitness components to create a fitness program for personal use.

Know

How proper and improper posture affects physical performance, injury risk, and rehabilitation outcomes.
Know the principles and techniques of corrective exercise and rehabilitation exercises used to restore strength, flexibility, and function.
How progressive rehabilitation programs are designed and applied to safely restore athletes to peak performance.
Key strength and conditioning principles—including repetitions, sets, resistance, duration, intensity, and frequency—and how they impact program effectiveness.
How to conduct and interpret fitness assessments for flexibility, strength, endurance, and body composition using established protocols.
Exercise and training principles (specificity, overload, progression, recovery, individual differences).
Major muscle groups, exercises targeting each, and how these exercises contribute to overall performance, health, and rehabilitation.
Safety guidelines, precautions, and risk factors associated with strength, cardiovascular, and flexibility training.
The importance of individualizing exercise programs based on medical history, goals, and the athlete’s responsibility for health and wellness.
The benefits of cardiovascular and flexibility training and the precautions necessary to prevent injury and optimize performance.

Understanding/Key Learning

Proper posture, alignment, and movement patterns are essential for preventing injury, optimizing performance, and supporting effective rehabilitation.
Corrective exercise and progressive rehabilitation programs restore function, prevent reinjury, and support.
Long-term athletic performance.
Strength and conditioning principles—when applied with appropriate intensity, volume, and progression—enhance athletic performance, health, and recovery.
Safety precautions, individualized programming, and awareness of medical history are essential to protect athletes and clients during training and rehabilitation.
Cardiovascular, flexibility, and resistance training each contribute to overall wellness, and understanding their benefits and risks ensures effective program design.
Individualized care that considers the athlete’s goals, physical capabilities, and responsibility for health improves outcomes and supports lifelong wellness.

Do

Evaluate and design an individualized fitness or physical activity plan that reflects personal goals and lifelong participation.
Analyze the effects of proper and improper posture on performance, injury risk, and rehabilitation outcomes.
Demonstrate exercise techniques used in corrective exercise and rehabilitation programs.
Design and implement progressive rehabilitation programs for athletes, considering recovery stage and individual needs.
Apply strength and conditioning principles to develop safe and effective programs for athletes.
Conduct, measure, and interpret fitness assessments for flexibility, strength, endurance, and body composition using established protocols.
Explain and calculate the relationships between repetitions, sets, resistance, duration, intensity, and frequency when creating program designs.
Identify and implement key safety guidelines and precautions in strength and conditioning activities to minimize risk.
Individualize programs by integrating each client’s medical history, goals, and personal responsibility for health into program planning and execution.

Unit Essential Questions

How do proper assessment, posture, and exercise programming optimize athlete performance, recovery, and long-term health?
How can individualized rehabilitation and strength programs be designed to safely meet the needs of diverse athletes and clients?
How do principles of safety, progression, and monitoring influence outcomes in strength, conditioning, and therapeutic interventions?

Lesson Essential Questions

What are the key exercise techniques used in corrective exercise programs?
How do these exercises restore function and prevent reinjury?
What factors should be considered when designing a progressive rehabilitation plan?
How do repetitions, sets, resistance, intensity, duration, and frequency interact in a safe and effective program?
How do exercises target specific muscle groups to improve performance and overall health?
How are fitness assessments conducted and interpreted to inform programming?
How can programs be tailored to an athlete’s medical history, goals, and individual needs?
How does monitoring and adjusting programs prevent injury and optimize outcomes?

10.4.12.A Evaluate and engage in an individualized physical activity plan that supports
achievement of personal fitness and activity goals and promotes life-long participation.
10.4.12.C Evaluate how changes in adult health status may affect the responses of the body systems during moderate to vigorous physical activity.
10.4.12.E Analyze the interrelationships among regular participation in physical activity, motor skill improvement and the selection and engagement in lifetime physical activities.
10.5.12.D Incorporate and synthesize knowledge of exercise principles, training principles and health and skill-related fitness components to create a fitness program for personal use

National Athletic Trainer’s Association: Appropriate Medical Care Standards for Organizations

11: Comprehensive management plan for at-risk athletes with psychological concerns.
12: Comprehensive athletic health care administration system is established to ensure appropriate medical care is provided.

Know

Physiological responses of the body systems during moderate to vigorous exercise.
Criteria for safely returning athletes to play following injury or illness.
Psychological and physical factors influencing return-to-play (RTP) decisions.
Signs, symptoms, and stages of psychological recovery from injury.
Appropriate procedures for restricting participation and referring an athlete to a physician.
Assessment methods for determining RTP readiness for upper- and lower-extremity injuries.
Roles and responsibilities of the athletic trainer and healthcare team in recognizing and responding to abnormal behaviors or psychological concerns in athletes.
Importance of a comprehensive athletic health care administration system to ensure coordinated, safe, and ethical care.

Understanding/Key Learning

Safe return-to-play decisions require collaboration, evidence-based assessment, and ethical judgment.
Both psychological and physical readiness must be evaluated before allowing athletes to return to participation.
Recognizing abnormal behaviors and providing appropriate referrals support athlete health, safety, and long-term well-being.
Individualized fitness and training plans that promote physical health, prevent re-injury, and encourage lifelong physical activity.
Effective management of at-risk athletes requires understanding emotional responses to injury and recovery.
A comprehensive athletic healthcare administration system ensures continuity of care and adherence to professional standards.

Do

Assess return-to-play (RTP) criteria using physical and psychological indicators to determine readiness for participation.
Identify signs and symptoms indicating when to restrict participation or refer an athlete to a physician.
Recognize and describe the five psychological stages of recovery and apply strategies to support athletes through each stage.
Identify and demonstrate methods for assessing RTP potential for upper-extremity injuries (e.g., shoulder, elbow, wrist) and lower-extremity injuries (e.g., knee, ankle, hip).
Apply training and exercise principles to support progressive return to activity following injury.
Evaluate how changes in health status affect exercise performance and recovery outcomes.
Integrate knowledge of motor skill development and exercise principles to improve performance and prevent future injuries.

Unit Essential Questions

How do physical and psychological factors impact a person’s overall recovery and well-being?
What criteria should be used to determine whether an athlete is ready to resume participation?
When is it appropriate to restrict an athlete from participation or refer them to a physician?
In what ways can support systems promote mental and emotional resilience during recovery?
How can individuals create and maintain fitness and wellness plans that support lifelong health?
How does a comprehensive healthcare administration system ensure quality care and ethical decision-making in athletics?

Lesson Essential Questions

What are the five psychological stages of recovery, and how can healthcare professionals support athletes through them?
What assessment methods help determine RTP readiness for upper- and lower-extremity injuries?
What factors must be considered before allowing an athlete to return to play after injury?
How do exercise and training principles influence injury prevention and recovery?
When should an athlete’s participation be restricted, and what are the proper steps for physician referral?
What is the athletic trainer’s responsibility when responding to abnormal behaviors or mental health concerns?

Materials/Resources

NATA – National Athletic Trainers’ Association (Return-to-Play and psychological health guidelines)
NFHS – National Federation of State High School Associations (Return-to-Play protocols)
CDC HEADS UP – Concussion and mental health awareness resources
NCAA Sports Medicine Handbook – Return-to-play and athlete welfare guidelines
Professional journals and case studies on psychological recovery and rehabilitation
Exercise testing tools (dynamometers, agility tests, movement screens)
Rehabilitation and fitness equipment for progressive training design
Multimedia instructional videos (RTP assessment, communication with athletes, mental health in sport)

10.1.12.B. Evaluate factors that impact the body systems and apply protective/preventive strategies.
(fitness level, nutrition)
10.1.12.C. Analyze factors that impact nutritional choices of adults. (cost, food preparation, consumer skills, nutritional knowledge, changes in nutritional requirements)

National Athletic Trainer’s Association: Appropriate Medical Care Standards for Organizations

6: Education and counseling is provided for athletes on nutrition, hydration and dietary supplementation.

Know

The major macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, fats) and micronutrients (vitamins, minerals) and their roles in athlete health and performance.
The effects of hydration, electrolyte balance, and fluid intake on performance and recovery.
Dietary guidelines and nutrition recommendations for active individuals and athletes.
Factors that influence nutritional choices, including cost, convenience, culture, personal preferences, food availability, and nutritional knowledge.
How nutritional strategies support energy production, recovery, immune function, and overall wellness.
Nutrition considerations across different populations and stages of life, including changes in requirements due to activity, age, or health conditions.

Understanding/Key Learning

Proper nutrition and hydration are essential for optimizing athletic performance, recovery, and long-term health.
Individualized nutrition plans should account for personal goals, activity level, lifestyle, and body system needs.
Nutrition choices are influenced by internal factors (preferences, knowledge, habits) and external factors (cost, availability, social and cultural influences).
Evidence-based nutrition strategies can prevent injuries, improve recovery, and enhance overall wellness in athletes.
Understanding how nutrition interacts with the body’s systems enables informed decisions that support health, performance, and fitness outcomes.

Do

Analyze dietary intake and hydration habits to assess their impact on athlete performance and recovery.
Evaluate factors influencing food choices and develop strategies for making healthier, performance-enhancing decisions.
Design individualized nutrition plans that meet the needs of athletes based on activity level, goals, and nutritional requirements.
Apply knowledge of macronutrients, micronutrients, and hydration to optimize energy, recovery, and performance.
Compare different nutrition strategies and supplements to determine their effectiveness, safety, and relevance for athletes.
Monitor and adjust nutrition plans based on performance outcomes, recovery rates, and changes in fitness or health status.

Unit Essential Questions

How does nutrition influence the body systems and athletic performance, including energy, recovery, and long-term health?
What factors shape athletes’ nutritional choices, and how can they make informed decisions that support their personal needs and goals?
How do hydration and electrolyte balance impact performance, safety, and recovery during physical activity?
How do nutritional needs change across different stages of life and levels of physical activity?

Lesson Essential Questions

How do macronutrients and micronutrients contribute to athletic performance and recovery?
How do hydration levels affect physical performance?
What are the signs of dehydration, overhydration, and electrolyte imbalance in athletes?
How does nutrient timing affect athletes’ performance?
How do external factors such as cost and nutritional knowledge influence food choices?
Why is it important for athletes to analyze their nutrition for balance and nutritional adequacy?

10.1.12.B Evaluate factors that impact the body systems and apply protective/ preventive strategies.
10.1.12.C Analyze factors that impact nutritional choices of adults.
10.1.12.D Evaluate issues relating to the use/non-use of drugs.

National Athletic Trainer’s Association: Appropriate Medical Care Standards for Organizations

6: Education and counseling is provided for athletes on nutrition, hydration and dietary supplementation.
7: Wellness programs promote a safe progression of physical fitness and improve long-term health across an athlete’s lifespan.

Know

The physiological effects of legal and illegal performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) including anabolic steroids, stimulants, blood doping, beta blockers, and diuretics.
The body systems affected by drug use (musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, endocrine, and nervous systems).
The difference between prescription medications, over-the-counter supplements, and banned substances.
Current research on ergogenic aids and emerging supplements for performance and recovery (e.g., creatine, caffeine, beta-alanine, protein, BCAAs).
Short- and long-term health implications of PED use including hormonal imbalance, cardiovascular risk, musculoskeletal injury, and psychological effects.
Legal and ethical standards governing drug use in sports (NCAA, USADA, WADA, NFHS regulations).
Protective and preventive strategies to promote safe nutrition, recovery, and natural performance enhancement.

Understanding/Key Learning

Performance-enhancing drugs alter the body’s natural physiology and can lead to significant health risks despite short-term performance gains.
Ethical decision-making and education are essential to maintaining integrity and long-term health in sport.
Understanding drug classification and physiological impact enables future sports medicine professionals to counsel and protect athletes effectively.
Balanced nutrition, hydration, rest, and scientifically supported supplements promote safe, sustainable athletic performance.
Wellness programs that emphasize prevention, recovery, and ethical choices improve athlete health across the lifespan.

Do

Differentiate between legal supplements and banned substances using official regulatory lists (USADA/WADA).
Analyze case studies of athletes who have used PEDs, focusing on performance outcomes, health effects, and ethical implications.
Research and present findings on emerging supplements for athletic performance and recovery (e.g., creatine, beta-alanine, collagen, tart cherry extract).
Evaluate the physiological responses of the body systems to both performance-enhancing and recovery-related substances.
Design an educational counseling session for athletes focused on safe supplementation, hydration, and recovery practices.
Debate the ethical implications of PED use in sports using real-world examples from professional and amateur athletics.
Develop a wellness plan that integrates legal performance enhancement, recovery strategies, and long-term health promotion.

Unit Essential Questions

How do performance-enhancing drugs impact the body’s systems and athletic performance?
What are the ethical, legal, and health implications of using banned substances in sports?
How do safe supplementation, hydration, and recovery strategies enhance performance naturally?
In what ways can sports medicine professionals educate and protect athletes from the risks of PED use?
How does informed decision-making contribute to athlete health, integrity, and lifelong wellness?

Lesson Essential Questions

What are the different categories of performance-enhancing drugs, and how do they affect the body?
How can legal supplements safely improve recovery and performance?
What are the short- and long-term health effects of anabolic steroids, stimulants, and blood doping?
How do social, psychological, and cultural factors influence an athlete’s decision to use PEDs?
What role do sports medicine professionals play in prevention, education, and ethical advocacy?
How can wellness programs counteract pressure to use performance-enhancing substances?

Materials/Resources

Multimedia content (documentaries, expert interviews, simulation labs)
USADA / WADA banned substance lists and athlete education materials
NCAA and NFHS policies on PEDs and supplement use
Scientific articles and journals on current supplement research
Case studies of athletes involved in drug-related controversies
Guest speakers: athletic trainer, certified strength and conditioning specialist
Nutrition and supplement labels for analysis (mock or real)