WELCOME TO EHS 120

Careers in Exercise and Health Science

Dana Commesso
WHAT IS EXERCISE SCIENCE?
WHY IS UNDERSTANDING PHYSICAL
ACTIVITY AND EXERCISE IMPORTANT?
PHYSICAL EDUCATION VS
Physical Education
 The study of how a body of
knowledge can be developed
to help individuals be better
prepared as teachers,
manage classroom
environments, enhance
student interaction and
socialization, improve
instruction and enhance
movement skill acquisition
EXERCISE SCIENCE
Exercise Science
 The study of the nutritional,
physiological, psychological,
and the functional adaptation
to physical activity, exercise,
sport and athletic
performance
1800S

 Blood pressure was studied – especially as it related to the

response to stress
 Skeletal fibers, mechanics and contractions
 Pulmonary respiration
 Use of oxygen required for physical work
 Metabolism
 Nutrition
1900S

 Exercise and physical activity was included as an important

component of overall wellness
 Included in college and university curriculum
 Field of study developed
 George W. Fritz – father of exercise physiology – established the
Physiologic Laboratory at Harvard University 1927
 Formation of ACSM based on difference between fitness levels
of European children and American children
DEVELOPMENT OF ACSM

 Increased interest in health and exercise

 Interest by the US Military in Fitness, Training and Rehabilitation post
WWII
 Rapid growth of sports medicine internationally
 Contributions include;
 Public outreach and policy
 Education
 Dissemination through journals, text books, conferences, position
stands
 Certification
 Partnerships with government, public and private organization
ACSM MISSION

To promote and integrate scientific research,

education, and practical applications of
sports medicine and exercise science to
maintain and enhance physical performance,
fitness, health, and quality of life.
AREAS OF STUDY

 Exercise Physiology
 Clinical Exercise Physiology
 Athletic Training and Sports Medicine
 Exercise and Sports Nutrition
 Exercise and Sport Psychology
 Motor Behavior
 Clinical and Sport Biomechanics
SO YOU WANT A CAREER IN EXERCISE
SCIENCE…
 Undergraduate Coursework
 Students in this field of study must plan ahead!
 Many careers require further study, a graduate degree and/or certification
 Health Care Careers
 Medical School
 Chiropractic School
 Dental School
 Physician Assistant Program
 Physical and Occupational Therapy