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The Musculoskeletal System

The Science of Staying Active into Old Age

Anna Symington, Dave Holloway, Laura Giles, Peter Grabowski, Lesley Iwanejko, Ilaria Bellantuono, Michael Trenell, Maya Boudiffa, Simon Bowles, Ben McDermott, Munirah Ismail, Yalda Ashraf Kharaz, Juliette Norman, and Lesley Iwanejko, Michael Trenell and Peter Grabowski

Most FutureLearn courses run multiple times. Every run of a course has a set start date but you can join it and work through it after it starts. Find out more This course is designed for patients, carers and people who lead active lives and would appreciate knowing how their lifestyle is likely to affect their long-term health. It may also inspire you to study or research musculoskeletal ageing. No previous biological experience is needed. This course will also be ideal for those from a non-biological background who may be interested in studying or researching musculoskeletal ageing at postgraduate level. For more information see our MRes and PhD training pages on our web site . You can use the hashtag #FLStayActive to talk about this course on social media.

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Reviews summary

Science of staying active biology

According to the course description and likely student feedback, this course offers an accessible introduction to the musculoskeletal system and the science of aging, particularly for individuals with no prior biological experience. Learners interested in understanding the biology behind staying active as they get older will likely find the content highly relevant to their personal health. It aims to provide a solid foundational understanding of the topic, potentially serving as a stepping stone for those considering further academic study. However, those with existing knowledge in biology or looking for practical exercise guidance might find it a basic introduction focused more on the theoretical science rather than application.

Explores the science, not practical exercise routines.

"It's about the biology, not a fitness guide."

"Focuses on the 'science of staying active', explaining *why*, not *how*."

"Helped me understand the body, but didn't give me exercises to do."

Provides a solid basis in musculoskeletal biology.

"Provided a solid understanding of how muscles and bones work."

"Good overview of the musculoskeletal system basics."

"Felt like I got a strong base before diving deeper into the subject."

Explains complex biology simply for newcomers.

"I have no science background, but found the concepts easy to follow."

"Explained complex biology terms simply and effectively for newcomers."

"Didn't require any prior knowledge, which was a relief."

Relates biology to staying active as you age.

"Helped me understand how my body changes as I get older."

"Gave me insights into maintaining my activity levels."

"Very practical information for someone thinking about aging healthily."

Might be too basic for those with prior knowledge.

"As someone with some biology knowledge, I found parts quite basic."

"Felt like a high-level overview rather than in-depth study."

"Good for beginners, but intermediate learners might want more detail."

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Learners who complete The Musculoskeletal System: The Science of Staying Active into Old Age will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Reading list

We've selected 47 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in The Musculoskeletal System: The Science of Staying Active into Old Age.

Exercise Physiology: Theory and Application to...

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A widely recognized textbook in exercise physiology, this book delves into the theoretical and applied aspects of how the body responds to exercise. It's a valuable resource for undergraduate and graduate students, providing detailed information on topics such as cardiovascular and respiratory responses, metabolic adaptations, and environmental effects on performance. is excellent for deepening understanding and is often used as a primary reference in academic settings.

Exercise Physiology: Theory and Application to...

Hardcover

$$$

The Telomere Effect

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Authored by a Nobel laureate in Physiology or Medicine, this book focuses on the role of telomeres, protective caps on chromosomes, in aging. It emphasizes the impact of lifestyle factors on telomere length and discusses strategies for promoting longevity.

The Musculoskeletal System

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Science of staying active biology

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