Neuromuscular adaptation, strength training, and body composition in clinical and research settings

Welcome to Neuromuscular adaptation, strength training, and body composition in clinical and research settings

Program: HES (also relevant for CSLTM, BEN, and HCHPO)

Description:

This PhD course provides an integrated understanding of neuromuscular adaptations to strength training, clinical applications of resistance-based interventions, and the assessment of body composition and bone health. It is designed for PhD students working in clinical, biomedical, or sports science domains who aim to apply strength training principles in both healthy and clinical populations.

Maintaining muscle function, muscle mass, and bone mineral density is increasingly recognized as essential for healthy aging, disease prevention, and recovery from illness. Sarcopenia and osteoporosis are major contributors to frailty, falls, and loss of independence in older adults, while muscle dysfunction is a key factor in chronic disease progression and reduced quality of life. This course addresses these critical health issues by equipping students with the knowledge and tools to assess and intervene effectively.

The course will cover:

• Mechanisms of neuromuscular adaptation to resistance training
• Design and evaluation of strength training interventions in clinical populations (e.g., cancer, chronic pain, aging)
• Assessment of muscle activity and function using EMG and dynamometry
• Body composition analysis using DXA, BIA, and anthropometry
• Bone mineral density (BMD) assessment and interpretation in health and disease
• Translational aspects: from lab-based findings to real-world implementation

The course includes lectures, hands-on workshops, and group discussions. Participants will also engage in critical appraisal of intervention studies and develop a mini-protocol for a training-based study.

Literature: Selected papers and book chapters will be distributed prior to the course.

Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of human physiology and clinical research methods.

Evaluation: Active participation and group presentation.

Organizer: Associate Professor Mathias Vedsø Kristiansen

Lecturers: Associate Professor Mathias Vedsø Kristiansen

ECTS: 2,5

Date: 21,28 October, 18 November 2026

Time: 8:15 - 16:15

Place: Aalborg University

City: Aalborg

Number of seats: 25

Deadline: 30 September 2026

Important information concerning PhD courses:

There is a no-show fee of DKK 3,000 for each course where the student does not show up. Cancellations are accepted no later than 2 weeks before the start of the course. Registered illness is of course an acceptable reason for not showing up on those days. Furthermore, all courses open for registration approximately four months before start of the course. We cannot ensure any seats before the deadline for enrolment, all participants will be informed after the deadline, approximately 3 weeks before the start of the course.

To attend courses at the Doctoral School in Medicine, Biomedical Science and Technology you must be enrolled as a PhD student.

For inquiries regarding registration, cancellation or waiting list, please contact the PhD administration at phdcourses@adm.aau.dk. When contacting us please state the course title and course period. Thank you.