1. Chapter 14
Exercise Physiology

2. Introduction
Physical Education focused on development of fitness through vigorous activities
Exercise Physiology is now the forefront of research on fitness and performance
Results from this field have drastically altered how athletes and exercisers perform
Exercise Physiology is now the largest and most popular subdivision of Physical Education

3. Definition of Exercise Physiology
Physiology is the study of the internal functioning of plants and animals and how this relates in a daily environment or occurrence
Exercise Physiology is the “study of acute physiological responses to activity and the changes in physiological responses to chronic physical activity” (Haymes, 2000)

4. Definition of Exercise Physiology, cont’d
Two goals for Exercise Physiology:
Use exercise to further our understanding of human physiology (basic science)
Use physiology to understand human exercise (applied science), i.e., cardiac rehabilitation

5. Development of Exercise Physiology
Late 1800’s, George Fitz was considered the Father of Exercise Physiology (Gerber, 1971)
’s, muscle and exercise physiology were synonymous with physiology and biochemistry
Late ’s, Harvard Fatigue Laboratory had become the world major site for exercise physiology research
American College of Sports Medicine was formed in 1954

6. Current Status of Exercise Physiology
Popular status and well-known sub-discipline of Physical Education
Regardless of increased public knowledge on exercise, misinformation is still rampant
Information has not shown to benefit children or youths at this stage
Exercise epidemiology is the latest specialized field of study for Physical Education
More clinical based research is beginning to change how people are exercising

7. Functions of an Exercise Physiologist
Research
Teaching
Clinical service
Three major approaches of exercise physiology concentration:
Cardiovascular and metabolic
Exercise biochemistry
Applied exercise physiology

8. How Does One Prepare to Become an Exercise Specialist?
Graduate level programs require coursework in chemistry and biochemistry
Doctoral candidates are pursuing possible teaching careers in colleges and universities
Applied work in laboratories as well as substantial coursework in statistics and research methods is a must
Possible certification processes through the ACSM or other organizations could be a requirement

9. Current Issues and Problems in Exercise Physiology
Basic vs. applied focus
Interdisciplinary approaches needed
Lack of attention with social and political problems in the field
Emphasis of problem solving with children inactivity conerns
Licensure of exercise specialists

10. Chapter 14
Exercise Physiology