Everything you need to know about IB Sports, Exercise and Health Science

IB Sports, Exercise and Health Science (SEHS) stands out as an applied science course that combines biological, physical, and practical knowledge in the context of sports and health.

In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about IB SEHS—from its syllabus structure and assessment methods to study tips and career pathways.

Structure of the IB Sports, Exercise and Health Science Course

The IB Sports, Exercise and Health Science (SEHS) course is available at both Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL). It is a two-year course that includes theoretical and practical components, allowing students to explore various aspects of human performance and health within the context of sport and exercise.

The course combines core topics, optional topics, practical investigations, and a Group 4 project, which encourages collaboration across different science disciplines. Students are assessed through external exams and an Internal Assessment (IA), with a focus on applying scientific methods to real-world scenarios.

The time commitment for the course differs between SL and HL:

• Standard Level (SL) requires 150 teaching hours.
• Higher Level (HL) requires 240 teaching hours.

The course includes a balance of theory-based learning and hands-on practical work, ensuring students gain a holistic understanding of the subject.

Key Components of the Course

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The course also places emphasis on developing critical thinking, research skills, and an understanding of the ethical implications of sports science in a global context. Both SL and HL students engage in practical and theoretical learning, but HL students are required to study additional content and complete more extensive assessments.

💡Check out these five key habits and evidence-based strategies of high-achieving students in  the IB.

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Core Topics Overview (Standard Level and Higher Level)

The Core component of the SEHS course forms the foundation of the subject and is mandatory for both Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL) students. It covers six fundamental topics that introduce students to key concepts in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and human performance.

Topic 1: Anatomy

This topic explores the structure and function of the human skeletal and muscular systems. Students learn about:

• The bones of the axial and appendicular skeleton
• The different types of joints and their functions
• Muscle structure and the types of muscles in the body
• The origin and insertion points of muscles and how they contribute to movement

Topic 2: Exercise Physiology

This topic focuses on the body’s physiological response to exercise and physical activity. It covers:

• The ventilatory system (lungs and breathing mechanisms)
• The cardiovascular system (heart, blood, and circulation)
• How these systems adapt to short-term and long-term exercise
• Concepts such as blood pressure, cardiac output, and oxygen consumption

Topic 3: Energy Systems

In this topic, students explore how the body produces and uses energy during physical activity. The key concepts include:

• The role of macronutrients and micronutrients in energy production
• The different energy systems (aerobic, anaerobic, and ATP-CP) used during exercise
• How the body manages energy balance and the effects of exercise on metabolism

Topic 4: Movement Analysis

This topic introduces the biomechanics of movement and the role of muscles, joints, and nerves in producing motion. Students learn about:

• Neuromuscular function and how signals from the brain control muscle movement
• Joint types and movement types, including flexion, extension, rotation, etc.
• Biomechanical principles such as levers, Newton’s laws of motion, and projectile motion

Topic 5: Skill in Sports

This topic focuses on the psychological and cognitive factors that influence sports performance. Students study:

• The classification of skills (open vs. closed, gross vs. fine, etc.)
• The information-processing model and how athletes make decisions during performance
• Methods to improve memory, reaction time, and feedback in learning new skills

Topic 6: Measurement and Evaluation of Human Performance

This topic covers how to measure and assess human performance accurately and fairly. It includes:

• The importance of validity, reliability, and accuracy in testing
• Different types of fitness tests and their relevance to specific sports
• Ethical considerations when conducting performance evaluations

Additional Higher Level (AHL) Topics Overview (Higher Level Only)

The AHL component of the SEHS course allows students to explore more advanced concepts related to human anatomy, physiology, and performance. This section consists of seven additional topics and requires 50 teaching hours.

Topic 7: Further Anatomy

This topic builds on the basic anatomy covered in the Core. Students explore:

• The structure of skeletal muscle fibres, including the microscopic components (sarcomeres, actin, and myosin)
• The role of connective tissue in muscle contraction and movement
• The types of muscle contractions, including isotonic, isometric, and isokinetic movements
• The function of the respiratory muscles during ventilation

Topic 8: The Endocrine System

This topic introduces students to the role of hormones in regulating body functions, particularly during exercise. It includes:

• The functions of key endocrine glands such as the adrenal gland, pancreas, and pituitary gland
• The role of hormones like adrenaline, cortisol, and insulin in exercise metabolism
• The effects of exercise on hormonal balance and metabolic regulation

Topic 9: Fatigue

This topic examines the causes and effects of fatigue during exercise and how the body recovers. Students learn about:

• The physiological and psychological causes of fatigue
• The difference between central and peripheral fatigue
• Recovery strategies to reduce fatigue and enhance performance
• How fatigue differs across various types of exercise (e.g., endurance vs. sprinting)

Topic 10: Friction and Drag

This biomechanics topic explores the forces that affect movement through different environments. Key concepts include:

• Friction in sporting contexts, such as running, cycling, and skiing
• The impact of drag forces in air and water, including aerodynamics and hydrodynamics
• Ways to reduce drag to improve performance, such as equipment design and body positioning

Topic 11: Skill Acquisition and Analysis

This topic focuses on the cognitive processes involved in learning and performing skills in sports. Students explore:

• Stages of learning and how athletes progress from beginners to experts
• Types of feedback (intrinsic, extrinsic) and how feedback can improve performance
• The role of motivation, anxiety, and arousal in performance
• Strategies for skill acquisition, including practice methods and coaching techniques

Topic 12: Genetics and Athletic Performance

This topic investigates the role of genetics in sports performance. Students study:

• How genetic factors such as muscle fibre type, VO₂ max, and metabolic efficiency influence performance
• The debate over nature vs. nurture in athletic success
• Ethical considerations in genetic testing for athletic performance
• The impact of genetic predisposition on training adaptation

Topic 13: Exercise and Immunity

This topic examines the relationship between exercise and the immune system. It covers:

• How moderate exercise can enhance immunity, while excessive training can suppress it
• The mechanisms of immune function, including white blood cells, antibodies, and the inflammatory response
• The impact of stress and nutrition on immune health
• Practical recommendations for athletes to maintain a healthy immune system

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Summary of HL Topics and Teaching Hours

The HL component is designed to deepen students' understanding of advanced scientific principles that are highly relevant to athletic performance and health. These topics require critical thinking and the ability to apply scientific knowledge to real-world scenarios in sport and exercise.

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Skills and Techniques Developed in the IB Sports, Exercise and Health Science Course

The IB Sports, Exercise and Health Science (SEHS) course not only focuses on the theoretical knowledge of human performance but also equips students with practical skills, investigative techniques, and analytical abilities essential for success in both academic and real-world settings. Through engaging in practical work, internal assessments, and the Group 4 project, students develop a range of competencies that extend beyond the classroom.

Below is a breakdown of the key skills and techniques that students will acquire throughout the course:

1. Practical and Investigative Skills

Students will undertake hands-on practical work in both laboratory and field settings to understand the application of scientific principles in sports and exercise. The course emphasises scientific inquiry and investigative techniques, enabling students to:

• Conduct experiments to investigate human performance (e.g., testing lung capacity or measuring heart rate during exercise)
• Use laboratory equipment and technology, such as spirometers, heart rate monitors, and motion analysis tools
• Gather, record, and process data accurately during investigations
• Identify variables and design controlled experiments

2. Research and Data Analysis Skills

Students will engage in data analysis throughout the course, learning how to interpret quantitative and qualitative data related to human performance and exercise. Key analytical skills include:

• Applying statistical tests to interpret fitness data
• Calculating and analysing standard deviation, correlation, and other relevant statistics
• Interpreting graphs and charts, such as velocity-time or distance-time graphs, to evaluate performance
• Evaluating sources of error in experimental work and suggesting improvements

3. Communication and Collaboration Skills

Throughout the course, students will refine their communication skills, which are essential for presenting scientific findings. This includes:

• Writing structured lab reports for the Internal Assessment (IA)
• Presenting findings from practical work and investigations
• Collaborating in teams during practical activities and the Group 4 project

The Group 4 project is a unique opportunity for students to work with peers from other IB science courses, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and teamwork skills. This project encourages students to:

• Explore a scientific problem collaboratively
• Share diverse perspectives and approaches
• Develop interpersonal skills through teamwork

4. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills

The SEHS course challenges students to think critically about complex scientific concepts and solve real-world problems in sports, exercise, and health. These skills are applied when:

• Evaluating the effectiveness of training programmes
• Identifying ethical concerns in sports science (e.g., the use of performance-enhancing drugs)
• Discussing international perspectives on health and physical activity
• Applying theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios, such as injury prevention or improving athletic performance

5. Technological and Digital Skills

The use of technology is strongly encouraged in the SEHS course, helping students develop skills in using digital tools and software to enhance their learning. Students will:

• Use online simulations and data collection tools for practical investigations
• Apply digital tools to track performance, such as heart rate monitors, GPS devices, and wearable technology
• Utilise spreadsheets and data analysis software to process experimental data

6. Ethical and International-Mindedness Skills

The SEHS course also emphasises the importance of ethical considerations and global perspectives in sports and health science. Students will:

• Explore ethical issues in research, such as the use of human subjects and performance-enhancing drugs
• Consider international approaches to public health and physical activity
• Evaluate the social and cultural impacts of sports, including accessibility and inclusivity

7. Time Management and Self-Discipline

The Internal Assessment (IA) and Group 4 project require students to manage their time effectively and work independently on research projects. Students will learn to:

• Plan and execute investigations within set deadlines
• Balance practical work with theoretical study
• Manage long-term projects, such as the IA, which involves data collection, analysis, and report writing\

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Summary of Skills and Techniques Developed in the SEHS Course

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💡Learn how each part of the IB grading system impacts your final diploma score.

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IB Sports, Exercise and Health Science Internal Assessment (IA) Overview

The Internal Assessment (IA) is a key component of the IB Sports, Exercise and Health Science (SEHS) course. It provides students with the opportunity to apply the scientific method to investigate a topic of personal interest related to sports, exercise, or health science. The IA requires students to conduct a scientific investigation, collect and analyse primary data, and present their findings in a structured report.

The IA contributes 20% to the student’s final grade at both Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL).

What Is Involved in the IA?

The Internal Assessment involves conducting an individual scientific investigation. This investigation can take various forms, such as:

• Experiments in a laboratory or field setting
• Comparative studies
• Analysis of exercise performance
• Biomechanical investigations
• Nutritional studies

Students are encouraged to choose a topic that interests them and is relevant to sports, exercise, or health. The investigation should involve collecting quantitative data and applying scientific methods to explore a specific research question.

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Structure of the IA Report

The IA report must follow a structured format, including the following key sections:

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What Is Being Assessed?

The IA is assessed using four criteria, each focusing on different aspects of the investigation. The assessment criteria are designed to evaluate the student’s scientific inquiry skills and their ability to present a coherent, well-reasoned investigation.

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Key Requirements for a Successful IA

To achieve a high score in the IA, students must:

1. Choose a relevant and focused research question that can be explored through a scientific investigation.
2. Demonstrate personal engagement by showing creativity and originality in their approach.
3. Design a sound methodology that includes controlling variables and using appropriate tools to collect data.
4. Present and analyse data accurately, including using statistical tests where appropriate.
5. Critically evaluate their findings, acknowledging limitations and suggesting improvements.
6. Communicate clearly and concisely, ensuring that the report is well-structured and uses correct scientific terminology.

Examples of IA Topics

Here are some examples of potential IA topics for SEHS students:

• The effect of hydration levels on athletic performance
• The relationship between BMI and aerobic fitness
• The impact of different warm-up routines on sprint performance
• A comparison of heart rate recovery times between trained and untrained individuals
• The effect of altitude training on endurance performance

Practical Considerations

The IA investigation must comply with ethical guidelines set by the IB. This includes obtaining informed consent from participants and ensuring that the investigation poses no risk of harm.

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Summary of the IA Requirements

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What Makes a Strong IA?

A strong IA will demonstrate:

• A clear and focused research question
• Personal engagement and originality
• A well-planned methodology with appropriate controls
• Accurate data collection and analysis
• Critical evaluation of results
• Clear communication using scientific language

The IA in SEHS provides students with a valuable opportunity to apply scientific methods to a topic they are passionate about, fostering skills that are crucial for future academic and career pursuits in fields such as sports science, physiotherapy, public health, and fitness coaching.

IB SEHS External Assessment Overview

The External Assessment for IB Sports, Exercise and Health Science consists of three papers for both Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL). The papers assess knowledge, understanding, and application across core topics and, for HL students, additional higher-level content.

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External Assessment Breakdown: Standard Level (SL)

Total Weighting: 80%

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External Assessment Breakdown: Higher Level (HL)

Total Weighting: 80%

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What Is Being Assessed?

The External Assessment tests students on the following Assessment Objectives (AOs):

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Linking Assessment Objectives to Papers

• Paper 1 focuses on AO1 by assessing students' recall of key facts and concepts through multiple-choice questions.
• Paper 2 tests AO1, AO2, and AO3, requiring students to apply knowledge to data-based questions and provide detailed written responses.
• Paper 3 assesses AO2 and AO3, focusing on the application of knowledge in specialised options and evaluating students' ability to interpret data and provide reasoned explanations.

Importance of the External Assessment

The External Assessment is crucial as it evaluates students' comprehensive understanding of the core and optional topics, their ability to apply scientific knowledge, and their critical thinking skills. It ensures that students can:

• Recall and explain scientific concepts accurately.
• Apply knowledge to real-world scenarios in sports, exercise, and health science.
• Analyse and interpret data effectively, drawing relevant conclusions.
• Formulate and evaluate scientific arguments clearly and coherently.

Tips to Succeed in IB Sports, Exercise and Health Science (SEHS)

We have spoken to our tutors and summarised their advice about how to succeed in IB Sports, Exercise and Health Science (SEHS). These tips cover how to stay on top of the content throughout the course and how to approach the final exams with confidence.

1. Master the Core Concepts Early

The Core topics form the foundation of everything you will study in SEHS. Make sure you have a strong understanding of anatomy, exercise physiology, energy systems, and biomechanics, as these topics come up repeatedly throughout the course.

• Use diagrams to help visualise complex processes like muscle contraction or energy systems.
• Learn key definitions and command terms early. Understanding terms like "distinguish," "explain," and "analyse" is essential for answering exam questions correctly.

2. Stay Organised with Your Notes

The SEHS syllabus covers a broad range of content, so it’s important to keep your notes well-organised:

• Divide your notes by topics and sub-topics for easy revision.
• Include practical examples in your notes to help you understand how theory applies to real-life scenarios.
• Create summary sheets for each topic, highlighting key concepts and assessment objectives.

3. Practice Practical Skills

The SEHS course places a strong emphasis on practical and investigative skills. Take every opportunity to get involved in laboratory work, fieldwork, and data collection.

• Learn how to design an experiment, control variables, and interpret data.
• Practice using scientific equipment like spirometers and heart rate monitors.
• Get comfortable processing and analysing data, including calculating averages, standard deviation, and understanding statistical tests.

4. Understand the Exam Structure

The SEHS External Assessment consists of three papers (two for SL), each with a unique format. Understanding what is expected in each paper will help you feel more prepared:

• Paper 1: Focuses on multiple-choice questions. Practice answering these quickly and accurately.
• Paper 2: Includes data-based questions and extended-response questions. Make sure you are confident with interpreting data and writing structured answers.
• Paper 3 (HL): Covers the Options. Make sure you have an in-depth understanding of the two options you studied.

5. Practice Past Papers

One of the best ways to prepare for the final exams is by practising past papers.

• Pay attention to command terms in questions to understand how to frame your answers.
• Time yourself to practice completing the papers within the allocated time limits.
• Review mark schemes to understand how examiners award marks and what they are looking for in your answers.

💡Practice papers are key for success! Find out why past papers are the ultimate tool for IB Exam preparation.

6. Use Diagrams and Flowcharts

Many topics in SEHS are easier to understand when presented visually. Use diagrams, flowcharts, and mind maps to:

• Illustrate complex processes, such as gas exchange or muscle contraction.
• Summarise key systems like the cardiovascular or energy systems.
• Show connections between topics, helping you see the bigger picture.

7. Use Command Terms Correctly

Understanding command terms is essential for success in IB exams. These terms tell you what kind of response the examiner is expecting.

• State: Provide a brief answer with no explanation.
• Explain: Provide a detailed account, including reasons and causes.
• Evaluate: Make judgments based on evidence, discussing strengths and weaknesses.

Common Mistakes IB Sports, Exercise and Health Science Students Make

Even the most prepared students can fall into common traps during the IB Sports, Exercise and Health Science (SEHS) course. Here are some frequent mistakes to avoid:

1. Relying Too Heavily on Memorisation

Many students try to memorise facts and definitions without understanding how to apply them. The SEHS course requires critical thinking, data analysis, and problem-solving skills, so focus on understanding concepts deeply and applying them to real-world scenarios.

2. Neglecting Data Analysis and Practical Work

Practical skills and data analysis are crucial parts of the IA and final exams. Students often lose marks because they don’t practice interpreting graphs, tables, or statistical data. Make sure you’re comfortable analysing trends, identifying anomalies, and justifying conclusions.

3. Misinterpreting Command Terms in Exams

One of the biggest mistakes students make is misunderstanding command terms like “explain,” “evaluate,” and “compare”. Not responding according to the command term can cost valuable marks. Always read questions carefully and answer in the required format.

4. Skipping Over Option Topics

Some students focus heavily on the Core topics but neglect the Options they’ve studied. Don’t underestimate the importance of Paper 3 for HL students, as it covers the Options in-depth. Ensure you revise the Options thoroughly.

5. Poor Time Management in Exams

Time management is essential in SEHS exams. Many students spend too much time on multiple-choice questions in Paper 1 or overthink their responses in Paper 2 and Paper 3, leaving sections incomplete. Practice pacing yourself to complete the exams on time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for IB Sports, Exercise and Health Science (SEHS)

Here are some commonly asked questions about the IB Sports, Exercise and Health Science (SEHS) course to help students and parents better understand what’s involved and how to succeed.

1. Is getting a 7 in IB Sports, Exercise and Health Science hard?

Achieving a 7 in SEHS is challenging but definitely achievable with consistent effort, strong time management, and a thorough understanding of the syllabus. The key to success is mastering both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, while also practising past papers to understand how to answer exam questions effectively. Students must also pay close attention to command terms and focus on critical analysis in both the IA and exams.

2. What makes IB Sports, Exercise and Health Science different from other science subjects?

SEHS is unique because it combines theoretical knowledge from biology and physics with practical applications in sports, exercise, and health. It’s a more applied science course, focusing on how the human body performs during physical activity. The course includes core science concepts like anatomy and physiology, but also covers sports psychology, nutrition, and performance analysis.

3. How should I prepare for the SEHS exams?

To prepare effectively for the SEHS exams, students should:

• Review core concepts regularly, using diagrams to help with memory.
• Practice past papers to become familiar with the exam structure and command terms.
• Focus on application questions that require critical thinking.
• Manage your time well during the exams and plan your answers carefully.

4. What should I focus on for the Internal Assessment (IA)?

The Internal Assessment (IA) is worth 20% of your final grade. To do well, focus on:

• Choosing a unique and focused research question related to sports, exercise, or health.
• Designing a sound methodology with clear variables and controls.
• Presenting data clearly using tables and graphs.
• Critically evaluating your results by discussing strengths, limitations, and improvements.

5. What options are available in SEHS, and how do they impact my grade?

The Options component allows students to study two specialised topics in greater depth. The four options are:

• A. Optimising Physiological Performance
• B. Psychology of Sports
• C. Physical Activity and Health
• D. Nutrition for Sports, Exercise, and Health

Your chosen options are assessed in Paper 3 (for HL students), which contributes 25% to the overall grade. It’s important to have a deep understanding of your options, as they often involve extended-response questions in the exam.

6. Is SEHS a good subject for future careers?

Yes! SEHS is an excellent subject for students interested in careers in:

• Sports science
• Physiotherapy
• Coaching and personal training
• Nutrition and dietetics
• Public health
• Exercise physiology
• Sports psychology

The course provides a solid foundation in applied science and can also be a stepping stone to medical fields, especially for students interested in human anatomy and physiology.

Conclusion

The IB Sports, Exercise and Health Science (SEHS) course offers students a unique opportunity to explore how the human body performs during physical activity while developing scientific inquiry skills and critical thinking abilities. From understanding anatomy and physiology to examining psychological and nutritional factors, SEHS provides a comprehensive view of sports science that is both theoretical and practical.

The skills developed throughout the course—such as problem-solving, research, and communication—are invaluable for future studies and careers in a wide range of fields, including sports science, physiotherapy, public health, and medicine.

Embrace the journey, stay motivated, and remember that success in SEHS is about more than just exams—it's about developing lifelong skills and knowledge that will benefit you well into the future.

Good luck! 💪