VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.
Physical Activities and Health
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:34:23
Abstract
This course introduces/explores the complex relationship between physical activity, sedentary behavior and health. It will discuss the evolution of current physical activity recommendations. It will examine the current evidence base that has informed physical activity recommendations and that identified physical activity as a key modifiable lifestyle behavior contributing to disease and mortality.
Objective
On completion of this course students will be able to demonstrate: 1. knowledge of and critical awareness of the role of physical activity and sedentary behavior in the maintenance of health and the aetiology, prevention and treatment of disease. 2. thorough knowledge and critical awareness of current recommendations for physical activity, and current prevalence and trends of physical activity and associated diseases 3. awareness of current national and international physical activity policies and how these impact on global challenges
Content
Introduction to Physical Activity for Health, including sedentary behavior Physical activity epidemiology; concepts principles and approaches Physical activity and all cause morbidity and mortality Physical activity and chronic disease; Coronary heart disease, diabetes, bone health, cancer and obesity Physical activity and brain health Physical activity and sedentary behavior recommendations Population prevalence of physical activity and sedentary behavior Physical activity policies Physical activity assessment
Resources
Literature
Core texts for this course are: Hardman, A. and Stensel, D. Physical activity and health : the evidence explained. 2nd edition. (2009) UK, Routledge. Bouchard, C., Blair, S. N., & Haskell, W. L. (Eds.). (2012). Physical activity and health. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics. Selective journal articles from relevant journals such as Journal of Physical Activity and Health and Journal of Aging and Physical Activity
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC , NDS
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Physical Activities and Health |
|
2 h weekly |