Outline

Overview

This unit provides an introduction to key psychological factors and explanatory frameworks accounting for the participation and adherence to Exercise and Physical Activity (PA) behaviour. The unit focuses on the main themes of behaviour change, mental-health and well-being. The unit aims to develop understanding of how psychology informs the design of interventions at the individual level with practical implications emphasised for health practitioners including exercise physiologists.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Movement Sciences
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	A minimum of 48 credit points
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	None
Assumed knowledge ?	None
Available to study abroad and exchange students	Yes

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Kotryna Lewis, kotryna.lewis@sydney.edu.au
Guest lecturer(s)	Maria Fiatarone Singh, maria.fiataronesingh@sydney.edu.au
Guest lecturer(s)	Suzie Mate, suzanne.mate@sydney.edu.au
Lecturer(s)	Kotryna Lewis, kotryna.lewis@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 1 September 2025

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Written work	Knowledge Dissemination Task Individual assessment task	35%	Formal exam period Due date: 17 Nov 2025 at 23:59 Closing date: 27 Nov 2025	1,200 words	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
In-class quiz	Lecture Quizzes Multiple-choice and multiple-answers questions completed during the tutorials via Canvas.	12%	Multiple weeks	5 minutes	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Lecture Quizzes Multiple-choice and multiple-answers	2%	Week 03	5 minutes	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Facilitating Exercise Behaviour Change Part 1 Intervention Plan Group report on synthesised client needs and a proposed 3-week behaviour change intervention	15%	Week 06 Due date: 14 Sep 2025 at 23:59 Closing date: 24 Sep 2025	Three pages	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Facilitating Exercise Behaviour Change Part 2 Full Report Final Group Report	30%	Week 11 Due date: 26 Oct 2025 at 23:59 Closing date: 05 Nov 2025	2,500 words (upper limit)	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Contribution	Facilitating Exercise Behaviour Change Part 3 Individual Teamwork Skills and Professionalism Individual, anonymous evaluation of group memebr's teamwork skills and professionalism.	6%	Week 11 Due date: 26 Oct 2025 at 23:59 Closing date: 05 Nov 2025	5 minutes	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= group assignment ? = early feedback task ?

Early feedback task

This unit includes an early feedback task, designed to give you feedback prior to the census date for this unit. Details are provided in the Canvas site and your result will be recorded in your Marks page. It is important that you actively engage with this task so that the University can support you to be successful in this unit.

Assessment summary

Assessment 1 - Lecture Quizzes: This assessment contains seven (7) quizzes worth 2% each. Quizzes are based on lecture and tutorial contents and completed in-class during the allocated tutorial time in Weeks 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, and 12. Quizzes 1 and 2 are the Early Feedback Tasks. Students must attempt at least five quizzes to be eligible to complete this unit of study.
Assessment 2 - Facilitating Exercise/PA Behaviour Change: This is a three-part group assessment aiming at facilitating and supporting physical activity or exercise behaviour change with a member of the local community. Part 1 (worth 15%) requires students to submit an evidence-informed 3-week behaviour change intervention plan that addresses the identified client needs and is appropriate to the client's readiness to change (due in Week 6). Part 2 (worth 30%) is the final group report on how the intervention was designed, delivered, evaluated, and what changes should be made if the client were from a diverse background (due in Week 11). Part 3 (worth 6%) is an individual, anonymous evaluation of group members' teamwork skills, communication and professionalism (due in Weeks 6 and 11). Students must attempt all parts of this assignment to be eligible to complete this unit of study.
Assessment 3 - Knowledge Dissemination Task: The assessment aims to develop critical thinking, knowledge integration, and effective communication skills suitable for the identified audience (e.g., teens and their parents, allied health professionals, exercisers, etc.). Students must attempt this assignment to be eligible to complete this unit of study.

Detailed information for each assessment can be found on the EXSS2033 Canvas site.

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades set out in the Coursework Policy 2014 (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a high distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction	85 - 100
Distinction	75 - 84
Credit	65 - 74
Pass	50 - 64
Fail	0 - 49	When you don’t meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard.

For more information see sydney.edu.au/students/guide-to-grades.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

This unit has an exception to the standard University policy or supplementary information has been provided by the unit coordinator. This information is displayed below:

As per University's policies. Detailed information for each assessment and related penalties can be found on the EXSS2033 Canvas site.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Week 01	The Big Health Problem: Low Exercise and Physical Activity, High Sedentary Behaviour, High Energy Intake, and Poor Mental Health	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 02	The Intention-Behaviour Gap and Social Determinants	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 02	The Intention-Behaviour Gap and Social Determinants	Tutorial (1.5 hr)
Week 03	Behaviour Change Theories and Frameworks	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 03	Behaviour Change Theories and Frameworks	Tutorial (1.5 hr)
Week 04	Gathering Background Information and Supporting Exercise/PA Behaviour Change	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 04	Gathering Background Information and Supporting Behaviour Change	Tutorial (1.5 hr)
Week 05	Behaviour Change Techniques and Exercise Adherence	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 05	Preparing for the Client Interview	Tutorial (1.5 hr)
Week 06	Habit Formation, Breaking, and Re-Formation	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 06	Understanding the Client: Scaffolding and Supporting Behaviour Change	Tutorial (1.5 hr)
Week 07	Social Determinants and Behavioural Theories in Sport & Performance	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 07	Sport and Performance and Social Determinants	Tutorial (1.5 hr)
Week 08	Indigenous Social and Emotional Wellbeing	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 08	Indigenous Social and Emotional Wellbeing	Tutorial (1.5 hr)
Week 09	Physical Activity and Exercise for Mental Health	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 09	Physical Activity, Exercise, and Sport for Mental Health	Tutorial (1.5 hr)
Week 10	Challenges when Facilitating a Behaviour Change: Working with Resistant Clients	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 10	Evaluating Behaviour Change Interventions	Tutorial (1.5 hr)
Week 11	Exercise and Physical Activity in Diverse Populations	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 11	Physical Activity and Exercise in Diverse Populations	Tutorial (1.5 hr)
Week 12	Too Much Exercise and Mental Health: Exercise Dependence	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 12	Knowledge Dissemination in Physical Activity, Exercise and Sport	Tutorial (1.5 hr)
Week 13	Sport and Performance in Diverse Populations	Lecture (2 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

Assessment Submission Requirements: Please note that an attempt (submission) of each assessment item listed is required to be eligible to pass this unit of study. If an assessment item is not attempted and no approved special consideration is granted, an ‘Absent Fail’ or AF grade for this unit of study will be assigned, as per the University's Policy.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

Weekly readings are listed on the EXSS2033 Canvas site, under weekly modules.

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. Explain the role of physical activity, exercise and sport in mental health and well-being across diverse populations and the scope of practice for exercise and sport scientists/exercise physiologists.
LO2. Identify, interpret and analyse the individual psychological, social, and environmental factors that affect physical activity, exercise and sport participation and adherence using appropriate quantitative and qualitative measures and tools.
LO3. Explain, interpret and apply relevant behavioural, cognitive, sociocultural, and ecological frameworks used to understand, evaluate and change physical activity, exercise and sport behaviours across diverse populations.
LO4. Design, deliver and evaluate an evidence-based client-centred behaviour change intervention to address individual needs, preferences and social determinants influencing their physical activity, exercise or sports participation and adherence.
LO5. Demonstrate effective communication skills and the ability to synthesise research evidence related to exercise psychology, physical activity and sport appropriate for the target audience and a work setting.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Alignment with Competency standards

Outcomes	Competency standards
	Accredited Exercise Scientist Professional Standards (2022) - 1.2.5. Distinguish roles of exercise professionals and health professionals within exercise science settings and judge when to refer. 13.2.2. Explain the role of physical activity and exercise in mental health and well-being. 13.2.6. Demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively and respond appropriately to assist clients from diverse populations to change their health and physical activity behaviours.
	Accredited Exercise Scientist Professional Standards (2022) - 13.2.1. Describe common social determinants of health factors that influence behaviour of health, physical activity and exercise. 13.2.4. Interpret and analyse the factors that influence and predict exercise adherence. 7.2.1. Select and apply appropriate assessment procedures, including screening of appropriate social determinants of health, goal setting, obtaining informed consent and a relevant medical history, and performing a pre-exercise risk assessment and understand when onward referrals are warranted.
	Accredited Exercise Scientist Professional Standards (2022) - 13.2.3. Interpret evidence-based behavioural theories and their constructs that relate to health, physical activity, sport and exercise 13.2.4. Interpret and analyse the factors that influence and predict exercise adherence. 13.2.5. Apply behavioural strategies according to the needs and preferences of the individuals and/or population and their progress towards achieving realistic goals.
	Accredited Exercise Scientist Professional Standards (2022) - 1.2.2. Support clients to meet their goals through the integration and application of the exercise science sub-discipline standards. 13.2.1. Describe common social determinants of health factors that influence behaviour of health, physical activity and exercise. 13.2.2. Explain the role of physical activity and exercise in mental health and well-being. 13.2.3. Interpret evidence-based behavioural theories and their constructs that relate to health, physical activity, sport and exercise 13.2.4. Interpret and analyse the factors that influence and predict exercise adherence. 4.2.10. Design and deliver evidence-based, exercise-based interventions and apply behavioural strategies that meet the needs and preferences of clients.
	Accredited Exercise Scientist Professional Standards (2022) - 1.2.3. Choose and apply a variety of verbal and non-verbal communication methods appropriate to the client and/or population, carers and other health and exercise professionals. 13.2.6. Demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively and respond appropriately to assist clients from diverse populations to change their health and physical activity behaviours. 14.2.4. Cite the research of others in written and oral communication

Accredited Exercise Scientist Professional Standards (2022) -

Competency code	Taught, Practiced or Assessed	Competency standard
1.2.2		Support clients to meet their goals through the integration and application of the exercise science sub-discipline standards.
1.2.3		Choose and apply a variety of verbal and non-verbal communication methods appropriate to the client and/or population, carers and other health and exercise professionals.
1.2.4		Practice with integrity within the scope of training for an Exercise Scientist and the ESSA Code of Professional Conduct and Ethical Practice.
1.2.5		Distinguish roles of exercise professionals and health professionals within exercise science settings and judge when to refer.
12.2.1		Explain the role of sedentary behaviour and physical activity in the aetiology, prevention and management of chronic conditions, mental health and disability.
13.2.1		Describe common social determinants of health factors that influence behaviour of health, physical activity and exercise.
13.2.2		Explain the role of physical activity and exercise in mental health and well-being.
13.2.3		Interpret evidence-based behavioural theories and their constructs that relate to health, physical activity, sport and exercise
13.2.4		Interpret and analyse the factors that influence and predict exercise adherence.
13.2.5		Apply behavioural strategies according to the needs and preferences of the individuals and/or population and their progress towards achieving realistic goals.
13.2.6		Demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively and respond appropriately to assist clients from diverse populations to change their health and physical activity behaviours.
14.2.4		Cite the research of others in written and oral communication
4.2.10		Design and deliver evidence-based, exercise-based interventions and apply behavioural strategies that meet the needs and preferences of clients.
7.2.1		Select and apply appropriate assessment procedures, including screening of appropriate social determinants of health, goal setting, obtaining informed consent and a relevant medical history, and performing a pre-exercise risk assessment and understand when onward referrals are warranted.
7.2.3		Identify and describe the limitations, contraindications or considerations that may require the modification of assessments and make appropriate adjustments for diverse individuals.

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

Overall, students provided positive feedback and made some helpful suggestions: 1. maintaining in-class quizzes; 2. increasing the difficulty of the quizzes; 3. adjusting the length of the tutorials; and 4. maintaining smaller tutorial groups with close tutor support and regular feedback. These aspects are targeted in the 2025 offering to maintain and enhance the student learning environment and experience.

Disclaimer

The University reserves the right to amend units of study or no longer offer certain units, including where there are low enrolment numbers.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Alignment with Competency standards

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

EXSS2033: Psychology of Exercise and Physical Activity

Semester 2, 2025 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Alignment with Competency standards

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links