How did Exercise Science Originate and What is it?

• CHINA– Stressed Isolationism and a contemplative life– Privileged class participated in wrestling,

boxing and Kung Fu as early as 2698 B.C.

• INDIA– Governed by religious beliefs that stressed

inner peace over physical activity.

• EGYPTIANS– Raised in a militaristic society and therefore saw the

importance of physical fitness

– Fitness for everyone, not just the ruling class

• ROMANS– Stressed physical training to allow rulers to gain more

land and riches

– Over time, professionalism was stressed and more people became spectators instead of participants

• GREECE – Athens – Physical education experienced a

“Golden Age”. Exemplified the mind-body spirit

– Spartans – Very Militaristic • “Come home with your shield or on it”

– Greek Physicians

• Herodicus (480 BC) Nutrition

• Hippocrates ( 460 – 377 BC) “First do no harm”

• Galen (131 – 201 AD) –

– First Sports Medicine Physician

– Dissection and Rehab

– Galen’s work inspired other physicians• Held Olympics from 776 B.C. – 394 A.D.

– Physiology – Study of the functioning of plants and animals

– Exercise Physiology – Study of these same organisms under exercise conditions

– How oxygen is utilized in the cardiovascular system

– What metabolic responses to exercise and training are

– Subdisciplines of Exercise Science: Cardiac Rehabilitation, Exercise biochemistry,

Modern Development ofExercise Physiology/Science

• Late 1800’s, George Fitz was considered the Father of Exercise Physiology.

• Late 1930-40’s, Harvard Fatigue Laboratory had become the world major site for exercise physiology research

• American College of Sports Medicine was formed in 1954

Certifications for an Exercise Scientist

• American College of Sports Medicine– Health Fitness Instructor– Exercise Specialist– Exercise Physiologist

• National Strength and Conditioning Association– Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist– Certified Personal Trainer

Career Opportunities for an Exercise Scientist

• Cardiac Rehabilitation

• Sports Facilities

• Corporate Wellness

• Personal Training

Career Opportunities for an Exercise Scientist Cont.

• www.healthandwellnessjobs.com

• www.exercisejobs.com

• www.usajobs.opm.gov

• www.nsca-lift.org

• www.acsm.org

• http://www.oa.mo.gov/pers/newjoas.htm