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 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 5

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

Introduction to Exercise Science 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

Causes of Mortality in US in 2005 8

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 19

TO READ Chapter 1 Pg 1 - 14