Introduction to Exercise Science

Chapter 1

Dr. Andrea Fradkin

What is Exercise Science? Many definitions of Exercise Science

“The study of numerous aspects of physical activity, exercise, sport, and athletic performance that have the common characteristic of movement and the adaptations that occur as a result of physical activity and regular exercise”

Exercise Science broadly includes: Nutritional, Physiological, Psychological, and

Functional adaptations to movement and sport

The term “Kinesiology” is often used instead of “Exercise Science”

Important definitions Physical activity:

Activities of daily living that include all movement that humans perform

Exercise: Structured movement process for the purpose of

improving fitness and performance

Sport and athletic competition: Movement in structured and organized activities

that involves a competitive aspect

Definitions of Physical Activity Definition that is too inclusive:

Bodily movement that is produced by skeletal muscles and substantially increases energy expenditure

Definition that is too inclusive: Human movements that are

Involuntary Performed aimlessly and without a specific purpose

All human movement NOT all movement is physical activity All physical activity is movement

Disciplines, Sub-Disciplines, and Specialty Areas

Exercise Science:Study of how and why the body responds to physical activity

What Do Exercise Scientists Study?

Two primary areas of inquiry: Health-related aspects of physical activity Sports performance

Total picture regarding health benefits of physical activity is far from complete

Greatest impact has been how low - moderate exercise improves health and well-being

Throughout history repeated references to physical activity and exercise Important for promoting good health

Research shows physical inactivity results in: Early morbidity

Premature mortality

Morbidity and mortality rates from lifestyle related diseases are at an all time high in US

Introduction to Exercise Science

Causes of Mortality in US in 2005

Why Don’t People Exercise?

Changing work and living environments have resulted in decreased physical labor

At the same time, they have increased opportunities for leisure time activities

Many individuals do not exercise enough to promote good health and reduce disease risk

Physical Inactivity Levels 2002 - 04

Overweight or Obesity in US Adults

Sport in History Physical prowess and ability to succeed in

sport are highly valued by people and society

Importance of athletic competition so high that Olympic Games were born

Currently have Summer and Winter Olympic Games alternating on a 2 year cycle

Sport Nowadays Professional, college, and high-school

sporting events are integral part of society

More opportunities for individuals of all ages to participate than ever before

Many other people participate in professional, amateur, and recreational competitions yearly

Not All Good News Athletes continuously looking for exercise

science professionals to assist them in: Developing an effective training program The safest equipment A sound nutritional program The best treatment for acute and chronic injuries

Unfortunately, desire and pressure to succeed creates a “win at all costs” mentality for some

Benefits Outweigh Negatives

Benefits derived from physical activity are important personally and as a society Individuals gain improvements in physical and

mental health Society gains from reduced levels of lifestyle

diseases and illness

Exercise Science professionals play a role in: Promoting individual and population health Physical activity and exercise Contributing to successful performance

Academic Preparation in Exercise Science

Exercise Science professionals come from a variety of educational backgrounds

Broad-based coursework Anatomy and physiology Biological sciences Chemistry and biochemistry Human development and psychology Mathematics and statistics Physics

These fields provide a solid foundation for understanding how and why humans move

Professional Standards for Programs A number of organizations cooperated to

establish academic standards and guidelines

Content areas for undergraduate level include: Anatomy and physiology Biomechanics Kinesiology Physiology of exercise Nutrition / weight control Exercise testing for normal and special populations First aid Exercise leadership Practicum (applied) experience Computer proficiency

NASPE Basic Standards for Exercise Science Foundational core

Exercise prescription for normal and special populations

Health promotions

Human relations

Administrative tasks

Professional development

Practical experience

Preparations for Careers in Health Care

Common for Exercise Science students to complete graduate work in a healthcare field

An Exercise Science degree helps meet requirements for: Medical school Dental school Chiropractic school Physician assistant programs Physical and occupational therapy

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