Students using the biomechanics track at the ACU BEST Hub in Blacktown.
At the end of last term, the Year 12 PDHPE and Fitness classes travelled to the Australian Catholic University (ACU) BEST Hub in Blacktown for an immersive day of hands-on learning in sport science.
We were able to participate in a wide range of sessions that linked to our Year 12 content and allowed us to deepen our understanding of the unit with hands-on engagement. We were lucky to receive first hand knowledge from ACU staff, who are experts in exercise science, and who use advanced analysis technology for professional athletes looking to improve their performance.
We participated in the Wingate Test, an environmental chamber (where we experienced what it would feel like to train at high altitude!) and used the biomechanics track. This 60m indoor athletes track was a highlight of our excursion, where we were able to run across weight plates which measured our strides and steps, and learnt how to analyse and improve technique using innovative technology. This links to our Core 2 unit of ‘Factors Affecting Performance’.
We have learnt a lot from this experience, and we are now able to apply these practical examples to our content in class to strengthen our knowledge. It was an eye-opening and energising experience that brought our HSC content to life.
Tahlia H. and Emily G. | Year 12
Catherine McAuley Westmead
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