IIT Madras, in partnership with NPTEL, will launch seven new online Sports Science courses in  India. Designed to be accessible, this course aims to bridge the gap between theoretical understanding and practical application. According to an official release, the course, designed to suit the physical structure and cultural differences between India and South Asia, aims to cater to a broad audience that includes coaches, athletes, trainers, physiotherapists and nutritionists.

The inaugural classes for these seven courses will commence on February 19, 2023. Interested individuals can apply for the courses on the NPTEL website before this date. Covering essential topics such as biomechanics, injury prevention, sports psychology, strength training for Indians and cultural aspects of sports, these online courses are offered through the National MOOCs portal of India, SWAYAM. While enrollment in SWAYAM is free, the final exam for each course will be in-person, center-based and proctored, with a nominal fee of Rs 1,000 per course, the release mentioned.

“These NPTEL courses aim to equip learners to understand how to enhance performance, monitor diet and training frequencies, formulate recovery programs and offer a holistic approach to sports science,” Andrew Thangaraj, coordinator, NPTEL, IIT Madras, said.