Veidlapa Nr. M-3 (8)
Study Course Description
Placement
Course Code
LSPA_580
Branch of Science
Health sciences; Sport Pedagogy
ECTS
24.00
Target Audience
Sports Trainer
LQF
Level 5
Study Type And Form
Full-Time; Part-Time
Study Course Implementer
Course Supervisor
Indra Vīnberga
Structure Unit Manager
Diāna Laipniece
Structural Unit
Latvian Academy of Sport Education (LASE)
Contacts
Riga, J. Asaru Street 5, vppk@rsu.lv, +37167061587
About Study Course
Objective
To deepen the understanding of professional activities in the fitness sector by applying theoretical knowledge and practical experience acquired during studies. As part of the course, students observe the work of experienced specialists, analyse approaches to customer service, and according to opportunities, develop professional contact, engage in lesson planning, management, and development of training programmes for clients of different ages and physical fitness.
Preliminary Knowledge
All courses previously taught in the study programme.
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge
1.Recognize and name the stages of the training process and the components of the classes according to the intended purpose.
Individual work and tests
Student insight into professional practice at fitness club • Defence of professional qualification practice: assessment of practical skills and knowledge
2.Define and describe elements of the training programme for people of different ages and readiness.
Individual work and tests
Defence of professional qualification practice: assessment of practical skills and knowledge • Overview of practices and documented experience
3.Identify, arrange and list basic principles for physical fitness assessment.
Individual work and tests
Defence of professional qualification practice: assessment of practical skills and knowledge
4.Explain and give instructions and recommendations on various physical exercises, taking into account the customer’s goals and level of preparedness.
Individual work and tests
Defence of professional qualification practice: assessment of practical skills and knowledge
5.Use professional behavioural and communication norms when working with clients, applying appropriate terminology in the development of training programmes and conducting classes.
Individual work and tests
Defence of professional qualification practice: assessment of practical skills and knowledge • Overview of practices and documented experience
Skills
1.Interprets and explains training methods for clients of different ages and readiness, tailored to their individual needs and goals.
Individual work and tests
Defence of professional qualification practice: assessment of practical skills and knowledge • Overview of practices and documented experience • Student insight into professional practice at fitness club
2.Classify and evaluate physical exercises by selecting them according to the physical condition of the client and the purpose of the exercises
Individual work and tests
Defence of professional qualification practice: assessment of practical skills and knowledge
3.Performs and examines various physical fitness assessment tests, approximately assessing the customer’s physical fitness and progress dynamics
Individual work and tests
Defence of professional qualification practice: assessment of practical skills and knowledge • Overview of practices and documented experience
4.Plan, prepare and present different types of fitness classes, draw up training programmes when leaving the training goal
Individual work and tests
Student insight into professional practice at fitness club • Defence of professional qualification practice: assessment of practical skills and knowledge
5.Use appropriate terminology and skills in professional communication with clients.
Individual work and tests
Defence of professional qualification practice: assessment of practical skills and knowledge
Competences
1.Develop training programmes and recommendations for clients of different ages and fitness, taking into account health conditions and objectives.
Individual work and tests
Defence of professional qualification practice: assessment of practical skills and knowledge • Overview of practices and documented experience
2.Apply training techniques, assess physical fitness, and adjust exercise based on the information gained, structuring exercise, load, and progression.
Individual work and tests
Defence of professional qualification practice: assessment of practical skills and knowledge
3.Conduct classes, provide clear instructions, and use professional terminology
Individual work and tests
Defence of professional qualification practice: assessment of practical skills and knowledge
4.Argue the importance of physical activity and tailor communication to the needs of different customer groups
Individual work and tests
Defence of professional qualification practice: assessment of practical skills and knowledge • Overview of practices and documented experience • Student insight into professional practice at fitness club
Assessment
Individual work
|
Title
|
% from total grade
|
Grade
|
|---|---|---|
|
1.
Student insight into professional practice at fitness club |
-
|
Test
|
|
Prepare a placement presentation, reflect placement placement, placement progress, challenges and acquired experience, course of placement, benefits and recommendations, can tell about the organisation of placement work and relation with clients, reflect placement challenges, communication and benefits, indicate the content of placement and classes. |
||
Examination
|
Title
|
% from total grade
|
Grade
|
|---|---|---|
|
1.
Overview of practices and documented experience |
-
|
Test
|
|
Student prepares and submits placement documentation in spring and fall practice - placement logbook, history of client classes with analysis or training program, video materials about conducting classes, as well as placement assessment and other necessary reports. |
||
|
2.
Defence of professional qualification practice: assessment of practical skills and knowledge |
-
|
Test
|
|
The purpose of the examination shall be as a mid-semester examination prior to the national Degree examination in order to assess the knowledge, skills and professional competences acquired by the student, as well as to provide structured feedback to assist the student in purposefully improving up to the final qualification assessment. 1. During the placement, the student runs a 20-minute specialized fitness group class, the goals and content of which are determined according to the topic plan developed by the head of specialization. During the class, the student applies theoretical knowledge and practical skills acquired during the study, including understanding of the structure of the training process, exercise methodology and safety principles. Demonstrate professional communication, precise terminology usage and appropriate behaviour in working with the group, ensuring effective and safe workout and receive feedback from the head of specialisation on the quality of the class and the necessary aspects of improvement. 2. Student, develops and presents an individual long-term training programme taking into account the physical fitness, health status and objectives of a particular client. During the development of the programme, the student applies the knowledge acquired during studies regarding physical fitness assessment, training principles, classification of exercises and adjustment of load, as well as demonstrates the skills to structure the training process. Receives feedback from the head of specialisation on the quality of the programme and the necessary development aspects. |
||
Study Course Theme Plan
FULL-TIME
Part 1
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
Placement places, their specifics. Contract terms with new placement places.
Description
The lecture will look at various placements and their specifics according to the specialisation chosen. The procedures for entering into contracts with placements will also be clarified, including the conditions to be met in order for the placement to be commenced. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
Information on the purpose, content and requirements of the internship in the spring semester.
Description
The lecture will address the purpose of the practice, which is the development of professional skills, the application of theoretical knowledge in practice and the strengthening of independent activity skills in selected specialisation. The content of the practice will also be outlined - watching, conducting classes, developing a training programme, completing documentation. Test requirements for spring semester will be explained. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Presentation of student placements on their placement.
Description
In the lesson, each student shall present their place of practice, its specificity and the main duties performed during the placement. The presentation will reflect the course of the placement, as well as analyse the advantages and potential disadvantages of the placement. This presentation serves as part of the internship’s independent work and promotes professional reflection skills. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Presentation of student placements on their placement.
Description
In the lesson, each student shall present their place of practice, its specificity and the main duties performed during the placement. The presentation will reflect the course of the placement, as well as analyse the advantages and potential disadvantages of the placement. This presentation serves as part of the internship’s independent work and promotes professional reflection skills. |
Total ECTS (Creditpoints):
9.00
Contact hours:
8 Academic Hours
Final Examination:
Defence (Placement)
Part 2
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
Information about internships, entry requirements in the autumn semester.
Description
The lecture will look at the purpose, content and test requirements of the placement during the autumn semester. The process of performing placement assignments will be explained, including conducting a specialized class, developing training programs and preparing a placement report. The lecture will also provide guidelines for a successful practice test, including the application of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
Placement places. Concluding contracts with new placement places.
Description
The lecture will look at the diversity of placements and their specificities, as well as the contracting process with the new placements. The terms of the contract, the parties involved and the formalities to be followed to ensure the smooth conduct of the practice will be clarified. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Gym
|
2
|
Topics
|
Presentation of practical lessons, guided by a suggested type of lesson with a task, situational exercises.
Description
Students run specialization classes, fulfilling tasks and dealing with situations comparable to national Degree examination requirements and helping to develop practical skills. Recommendations will be made during classes to facilitate successful preparation for the national Degree examination. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Gym
|
2
|
Topics
|
Presentation of practical lessons, guided by a suggested type of lesson with a task, situational exercises.
Description
Students run specialization classes, fulfilling tasks and dealing with situations comparable to national Degree examination requirements and helping to develop practical skills. Recommendations will be made during classes to facilitate successful preparation for the national Degree examination. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Gym
|
2
|
Topics
|
Presentation of practical lessons, guided by a suggested type of lesson with a task, situational exercises.
Description
Students run specialization classes, fulfilling tasks and dealing with situations comparable to national Degree examination requirements and helping to develop practical skills. Recommendations will be made during classes to facilitate successful preparation for the national Degree examination. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Gym
|
2
|
Topics
|
Presentation of practical lessons, guided by a suggested type of lesson with a task, situational exercises.
Description
Students run specialization classes, fulfilling tasks and dealing with situations comparable to national Degree examination requirements and helping to develop practical skills. Recommendations will be made during classes to facilitate successful preparation for the national Degree examination. |
Total ECTS (Creditpoints):
15.00
Contact hours:
12 Academic Hours
Final Examination:
Defence (Placement)
PART-TIME
Part 1
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
Placement places, their specifics. Contract terms with new placement places.
Description
The lecture will look at various placements and their specifics according to the specialisation chosen. The procedures for entering into contracts with placements will also be clarified, including the conditions to be met in order for the placement to be commenced. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
Information on the purpose, content and requirements of the internship in the spring semester.
Description
The lecture will address the purpose of the practice, which is the development of professional skills, the application of theoretical knowledge in practice and the strengthening of independent activity skills in selected specialisation. The content of the practice will also be outlined - watching, conducting classes, developing a training programme, completing documentation. Test requirements for spring semester will be explained. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Presentation of student placements on their placement.
Description
In the lesson, each student shall present their place of practice, its specificity and the main duties performed during the placement. The presentation will reflect the course of the placement, as well as analyse the advantages and potential disadvantages of the placement. This presentation serves as part of the internship’s independent work and promotes professional reflection skills. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
2
|
Topics
|
Presentation of student placements on their placement.
Description
In the lesson, each student shall present their place of practice, its specificity and the main duties performed during the placement. The presentation will reflect the course of the placement, as well as analyse the advantages and potential disadvantages of the placement. This presentation serves as part of the internship’s independent work and promotes professional reflection skills. |
Total ECTS (Creditpoints):
9.00
Contact hours:
8 Academic Hours
Final Examination:
Defence (Placement)
Part 2
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
Information about internships, entry requirements in the autumn semester.
Description
The lecture will look at the purpose, content and test requirements of the placement during the autumn semester. The process of performing placement assignments will be explained, including conducting a specialized class, developing training programs and preparing a placement report. The lecture will also provide guidelines for a successful practice test, including the application of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
Placement places. Concluding contracts with new placement places.
Description
The lecture will look at the diversity of placements and their specificities, as well as the contracting process with the new placements. The terms of the contract, the parties involved and the formalities to be followed to ensure the smooth conduct of the practice will be clarified. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Gym
|
2
|
Topics
|
Presentation of practical lessons, guided by a suggested type of lesson with a task, situational exercises.
Description
Students run specialization classes, fulfilling tasks and dealing with situations comparable to national Degree examination requirements and helping to develop practical skills. Recommendations will be made during classes to facilitate successful preparation for the national Degree examination. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Gym
|
2
|
Topics
|
Presentation of practical lessons, guided by a suggested type of lesson with a task, situational exercises.
Description
Students run specialization classes, fulfilling tasks and dealing with situations comparable to national Degree examination requirements and helping to develop practical skills. Recommendations will be made during classes to facilitate successful preparation for the national Degree examination. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Gym
|
2
|
Topics
|
Presentation of practical lessons, guided by a suggested type of lesson with a task, situational exercises.
Description
Students run specialization classes, fulfilling tasks and dealing with situations comparable to national Degree examination requirements and helping to develop practical skills. Recommendations will be made during classes to facilitate successful preparation for the national Degree examination. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Gym
|
2
|
Topics
|
Presentation of practical lessons, guided by a suggested type of lesson with a task, situational exercises.
Description
Students run specialization classes, fulfilling tasks and dealing with situations comparable to national Degree examination requirements and helping to develop practical skills. Recommendations will be made during classes to facilitate successful preparation for the national Degree examination. |
Total ECTS (Creditpoints):
15.00
Contact hours:
12 Academic Hours
Final Examination:
Defence (Placement)
Bibliography
Required Reading
1.
Marcus, B. H., & Bess, H. 2025. Motivating people to be physically active. Human Kinetics.
2.
Bushman B.2025 Fitness professionals handbook. Eight edition. Human Kinetics.
3.
Cosgrove R. 2025.Age Strong. A.Womans’s Guide to Feeling Athletic andFit After 40. Human Kinetics.
4.
Comfort, P. (Ed.). 2024. Developing power. Human Kinetics.
5.
Reuter, B. (Ed.). 2024. Developing endurance. Human Kinetics.
Additional Reading
1.
Stoppani, J. 2023. Jim stoppani's encyclopedia of muscle and strength. Human Kinetics.
2.
Walton-Fisette, Jennifer L. 2021. Foundations of physical education, exercise science, and sport. NY: McGraw-Hill Education.
3.
Potach, D., & Meira, E. 2022. Sport injury prevention anatomy. Human Kinetics.
4.
Grasis N. u.c. 2022.Trenera rokasgrāmata. Rīga, Jumava.
5.
Yoke, Mary M. 2020. Methods of group exercise instruction. Champaign, Illinois : Human Kinetics
6.
Ungaro, Alycea 2019. 15-minute Pilates: four 15-minute workouts for strength, stretch, and control. New York : DK Publishing
7.
Bērnu un pusaudžu trenera rokasgrāmata
Other Information Sources
1.
Fizisko aktivitāšu ieteikumi Latvijas iedzīvotājiem.
2.
Rekomendācijas fizisko aktivitāšu veicināšanai Latvijas iedzīvotājiem. VM, PVO, 2020.