Asthma and Exercise
Most people with Asthma can exercise and become fit. But the type, and intensity of exercise Asthmatics can do varies greatly from person to person. Here’s a video that outlines the rules of thumb.
Can’t Vs. Doesn’t Understand; Coaching Towards Learning Style
“Okay, now let’s see a squat, I’m gonna go first and then you try.”
The above is a standard sentence during my PAC Profile assessments and it carries with it powerful proactivity. I just also serendipitously learned that “proactivity” is a real, bona-fide word. When we teach movement, it makes sense to demonstrate first. Explaining to anybody a physical activity they’ve never performed, or performed with questionable technique, will skew towards wheels-fall-off territory early. Proactive practices give us and our athletes more opportunity sooner, and reduce the need to backtrack.
The most efficient use of initial instruction time (the first time we are teaching an exercise) looks like this:
- Label
- Demonstrate
- Provide supported performance
For the ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) population, labeling in particular can have interim or long-term benefit for language (productive and receptive), memory, and independence. If the athlete is familiar with the word “squat” and can equate it to the movement pattern that constitutes a squat (whatever their current ability level), the coach does not have to repeat and demonstrate and repeat and repeat and repeat. Because the athlete already knows. The word squat and the movement squat have been paired in a way that makes sense, and is memorable, for the athlete.
Labeling adds to the lexicon. It’s remarkable just how much functional language we can build through fitness programs. Not only exercise names “squat, press, pull-down, push throw, rope swings…” but objects “Sandbell, rope, cones, Dynamax ball, sandbag…” and abstract concepts including prepositions “in, on, under, right, left, up, down…” When our athletes are actively engaged in fitness activities teaching these terms/concepts is easily presented in a natural manner.
Demonstrating is crucial because it circumvents us and our athlete standing there and staring at one another (or off into the distance for those of our less-eye-contact-inclined friends). We always demonstrate a new exercise; this provides context and a framework for both the learning style and that athlete’s interpretation of what we just did. We’ll learn how they follow visual modeling and, often, how motivated they are to perform the thing they just saw.
Do they get right down to squatting? Are they hesitating? Overwhelmed? We will be given really good clues here.
Providing supported performance means that we are starting the athlete at a level of performance that they are sure to master quickly (if we have to progress the exercise immediately this is a good sign). If we wind up progressing an exercise five times during the first session then good. Good! This translates to the athlete having early successes that can be reinforced. We usually prefer to do the exercises that we’re good at, and our athletes with autism are not much of an exception.
We may provide a physical or guided prompt early on with an exercise to ensure safe and effective technical performance. With the squat this may mean having the athlete hold on to a resistance band attached to a secure, stable area and squatting to an elevated surface (we always use Dynamax balls propped up on cardio step risers).
Depending on physical, adaptive, and/or cognitive ability, we may be able to fade this support in the first session or it could take months. I have some highly motivated athletes who, because of their physical needs, require longer practice with a given level of an exercise before they’ve reached mastery and can progress. The athlete should be held to the expectation of his/her best current level of performance (unless we’re talking about exceptional amounts of strength or power, because then programming changes a bit).
Efficient and effective coaching enables us to determine how best the athlete will learn a particular exercise. While it’s tempting to classify our athletes as “more visual” or “more kinesthetic” learners I’ve found that it is far better to approach this from an exercise-by-exercise basis. Some of my athletes need physical prompting through the end range of an overhead press but can “get” a band row when I demonstrate pulling my arms back while standing parallel to them.
“Don’t know how” is a misinterpretation of breakdown in effective coaching communication. We need to be instructing with less words, more action. More show than tell.
When our athletes, or any of us, don’t understand the direction, the contingency, or the expectation we freeze, get off-task, get frustrated, or a Lucky Charms marshmallow cornucopia concoction of all three. Being proactive in coaching means giving our athletes the information they require delivered in a way that is useful.
It is easy to take for granted the neurotypical ability to interpret nuance, abstraction, and implied information; the untold stuff between the clearly marked things. Giving our athletes the context and environment to succeed, especially in the first few sessions or when teaching a new exercises becomes our bridge to success in coaching and performance.
Photos provided by Eric Chessen.
Eric Chessen, M.S., is an Exercise Physiologist with an extensive background in Applied Behavior Analysis. Eric provides on-site and distance consulting worldwide. He is the founder of Autism Fitness®, offering courses, tools, resources and a community network to empower support professionals to deliver adaptive fitness programming to anyone with developmental deficits to create powerful daily living outcomes that last a lifetime.
Kick up the Cardio
Currently, health clubs offer a variety of cardio and strength options. They offer a plethora of equipment and classes yet attrition remains high. By combining the science of cardio and strength training with a motivated and energetic instructor new programming combining….
Creating Welcoming, Inclusive Health & Fitness Environments for People with Obesity
Each year for the past several decades, the health & fitness industry has served approximately 20% of the population, primarily helping the fit get fitter. Eighty percent of the population joined a health & fitness center but did not stay, or never joined because they decided it was not the right fit for them. A movement is gaining momentum to change that, and to make the health & fitness industry more inclusive and welcoming of people of all different ages, shapes, sizes and abilities.
Worldwide, rates of obesity have tripled in the past 45 years. More than 42% of Americans have obesity, with the prevalence in the United States rising over 12% in the last 18 years. This presents an untapped opportunity for fitness professionals with specialized knowledge and expertise in working with clients with obesity.
Dr. Rachele Pojednic and I have developed a MedFit Classroom Specialist Course. Presented in 10 modules and requiring 10 hours to complete, the Obesity Fitness Specialist course defines obesity and weight bias and identifies the biological, developmental, environmental and lifestyle factors that contribute to obesity. It explores solutions to obesity using the Socioecological model and empowers fitness professionals to be a part of individual-level, as well as institutional- and community-level, solutions.
Learners will be able to position themselves as obesity fitness specialists separate and distinct from weight management and weight loss specialists. They will be able to create safe and effective programming for clients with obesity and inclusive environments that can lead to sustained client behavior change and health outcomes. The course culminates in a 10-step roadmap with one end goal—obesity fitness specialists who can help their clients reduce their risk of obesity-related risk factors and associated disease, discover the joy of movement, and reap the many health benefits of physical activity.
People with obesity who find health & fitness environments where they feel welcome and included are likely to stay. Fitness specialists who are able to lead with empathy and build trust are likely to make their clients feel understood and heard. Obesity Fitness Specialists have an important role to play in helping their clients with obesity achieve their health & fitness goals.
Dr. Amy Bantham, DrPH, MS, MPP, is the CEO/Founder of Move to Live More, a research and consulting firm addressing physical inactivity, chronic disease and social determinants of health through cross-sector collaboration and innovation. A certified health and wellness coach, personal trainer, and group exercise instructor, Amy holds a Doctor of Public Health from the Harvard School of Public Health. She can be reached at movetolivemore.com or @MovetoLiveMore
Heart Rate Variability, Why It Matters and How Can You Improve it
Heart rate variability (HRV) is a measurement of the variation in time between successive heartbeats.
HRV is controlled by the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches of the autonomic nervous system, which work in opposition to regulate our body’s functions. The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for our “fight or flight” response, while the parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for our “rest and digest” response.
A higher HRV indicates that the parasympathetic nervous system is dominant, which means that the body is in a state of relaxation and recovery. A lower HRV indicates that the sympathetic nervous system is dominant, which means that the body is in a state of stress and exertion.
HRV is a valuable tool in assessing overall health and identifying potential health risks. It is affected by various factors, including age, fitness level, stress levels, and sleep quality. As we age, our HRV tends to decrease, and this decrease is associated with an increased risk of developing chronic health conditions.
Research has shown that a low HRV is associated with an increased risk of mortality from various health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Monitoring HRV regularly can help identify potential health risks and enable us to take steps to address them.
What is a Good HRV?
A “good” HRV varies depending on a person’s age, fitness level, and overall health. Generally, a good HRV falls between 60 and 100 ms. This range varies depending on age:
| AGE GROUP | AVERAGE HRV |
| 18-25 | 62-85 ms |
| 26-35 | 55-75 ms |
| 36-45 | 50-70 ms |
| 46-55 | 45-65 ms |
| 55-65 | 42-62 ms |
| 66+ | 40-60 ms |
Factors Affecting HRV
HRV tends to decrease with age, and this decrease is attributed to a decrease in parasympathetic nervous system activity. This decrease can be more pronounced in individuals with chronic health conditions or who lead sedentary lifestyles.
Chronic health conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes, can negatively impact HRV. Furthermore, lifestyle habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a poor diet can also have a negative impact on HRV.
Stress, whether physical or emotional, can decrease HRV. Poor sleep quality or sleep deprivation can lead to a decrease in HRV, as the body is unable to fully recover and recharge.
Certain medications, including beta-blockers used to treat high blood pressure and heart conditions, can significantly decrease HRV. (If you are taking medication and are concerned about its impact on HRV, we recommend speaking with your healthcare provider.)
How to Improve Your HRV
Regular exercise has been shown to increase HRV, especially high-intensity interval training. Engaging in regular physical activity improves heart health and can positively impact HRV. It is important to note that overtraining can have the opposite effect on HRV, so it is important to find the right balance between exercise and rest.
Regular relaxation and stress management techniques can help counteract the effects of stress and improve HRV. Relaxation techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation and guided imagery can help reduce stress and increase HRV.
Getting enough quality sleep is essential for overall health and can increase HRV. Consistently getting 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night can improve HRV.
Eating a balanced diet rich in whole foods can improve overall health, which can in turn increase HRV. Foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish and nuts, have been shown to increase HRV. Conversely, a diet high in processed foods and sugar can have a negative impact on HRV.
Limited alcohol and caffeine consumption. Caffeine can increase heart rate and activate the sympathetic nervous system, while alcohol can have a depressant effect on the parasympathetic nervous system. Limiting alcohol and caffeine intake can positively impact HRV.
5 Pilates Exercises to Improve Respiratory Function
Pilates is a total body exercise method that is highly effective for strengthening and lengthening the entire body. While Pilates is mostly known to improve core strength (the “Powerhouse”), posture, and range of motion, this exercise method can be used to improve respiratory function in those suffering from respiratory diseases. Respiratory diseases include asthma, COPD, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, lung cancer, cystic fibrosis, pneumonia, and now COVID-19. These diseases affect the way one breathes and lowers oxygen saturation that the body needs to function properly. One of the main principles in Pilates is breathing, thus the need to take a closer look at the effects of Pilates on respiratory function.
Benefits of Pilates Related to Respiratory Disease
- Improves postural cavity to breathe properly.
- Expands breathing capacity with diaphragmatic breathing.
- Increases pulmonary ventilation which is needed for better respiratory function.
- Improves lung volume.
- Develops intercostal muscles (respiratory muscles) to better “squeeze” out impure air.
- Improves exhaling all impure air out of the body while inhaling pure air.
- Improves thoracoabdominal mobility.
- Improves circulation to deliver oxygenated blood more efficiently.
- Increased SpO2 (blood oxygen saturation).
- >95% indicates healthy respiratory function.
- <95% indicates taxed respiratory function.
The Pilates Breathing Method
Joseph Pilates, the creator of Contrology, stated in his book Return to Life Through Contrology: “Lazy breathing converts the lungs, literally and figuratively speaking, into a cemetery for the deposition of diseased, dying and dead germs as well as supplying an ideal haven for the multiplication of other harmful germs.”1
- Lateral Breathing: The main goal for Pilates breathing is to breathe deeply expanding the ribcage without raising the abdominal muscles training them to jet out. Therefore, deep lateral breathing through the ribcage is the hub of the breathing technique. Proper breathing is inhaling through the nose and exhaling forcefully through the mouth. When one inhales, the ribcage expands out to the sides using the intercostal muscles, and then when exhaling the ribcage knits together like one is being sinched in a corset. According to Joseph Pilates, one should exhale forcefully getting all impure air out of the lungs like wringing out every drop of water out of a wet cloth.
- Set Breathing Pattern: When performing the Pilates exercises, one should inhale to prep for the movement and exhale as one performs the movement.
- Rhythmic Breathing Pattern: In some exercises, one breathes in rhythm to the exercise. This breathing consciously activates respiratory muscles to enable the lungs to expand and transport oxygen.
5 Effective Pilates Exercises to Improve Respiratory Function
The Hundred (Rhythmic Breathing)
- Begin a tabletop position with the shoulder blades and head lifted off the mat looking forward.
- Pump the arms up and down 100 times vigorously so the abdominals respond to and control the movement.
- Inhale through the nose 5 times to the rhythm of the arms pumping, then exhale 5 times to the rhythm of the arms pumping.
- Keep the lower back imprinted to the mat at all times.
Single Leg Stretch (Rhythmic Breathing)
- In a supine position, lift the shoulder blades and head off the mat looking forward.
- Bend the right knee towards the chest as the left leg extends straight out hovering over the mat.
- Inhale through the nose as you switch the legs 2 times, then exhale as you switch the legs 2 times.
- Inhale, inhale, exhale, exhale as you switch, switch, switch, switch.
- Keep the lower back imprinted to the mat at all times.
- Perform 8 sets.
Dying Bug (Set Breathing Pattern)
- In a supine position, position the legs in table-top and arms extend straight up towards the ceiling.
- Press the right hand firmly on the right thigh and press the right thigh to the right hand in opposition.
- Inhale through the nose as you extend the left arm back overhead and the left leg extends straight out hovering over the mat.
- Exhale through the mouth and draw the arm in and the leg back to tabletop. Repeat on same side and switch.
- Keep the lower back imprinted to the mat at all times.
- Perform 8 reps on each side.
Toe Taps (Set Breathing Pattern)
- In a supine position, lift the legs into tabletop keeping the upper body and head down on the mat.
- Anker the arms next to the body pulling the shoulders back and down on the mat.
- Inhale through the nose as you lower both feet and legs together towards the mat. Keep the knees at 90º and the feet away from the glutes.
- Exhale as you pull the legs back up to tabletop.
- Keep the lower back imprinted to the mat at all times.
- Perform 10 reps.
Thread the Needle (Set Breathing Pattern)
- Start in a side kneeling position with the hips lifted off the mat and one forearm down on the mat with the other arm straight up to the ceiling.
- Inhale through the nose as you lean the body back an inch to expand the ribcage.
- Exhale through the mouth as you rotate forward and thread the arm under the armpit towards the back. Crunch the obliques and transverse abs.
- Inhale through the nose as you un-rotate and return to the start position with the arm lifted towards the ceiling.
- Perform 8 reps on each side.
Pilates, respiratory function and research
The literature is scarce and sometimes conflicting about the benefits of Pilates breathing related to the respiratory system. However, there are some existing studies that look at the increase in lung volumes, respiratory motion, SpO2, and the reduction in respiratory rate using Pilates breathing exercises. More research needs to be conducted. Refer to suggested reading at bottom of article.
Education for Fit Pros
Fitness Professionals & Personal Trainers: Become a Respiratory Disease Fitness Specialist!
Some of your clients may suffer from a respiratory disease and you may be an important source of relief. The Respiratory Disease Fitness Specialist online course will equip you with the knowledge to safely and effectively work with these clients to help improve their quality of life.
CarolAnn, M.S. Exercise Science and Health Promotion, is a 30+ year veteran in the fitness industry educating other health/fitness professionals to increase their expertise and brand influence. She is on the MedFit Education Advisory Board and the head health/fitness educator for FiTOUR. She is currently the Head Instructor at Club Pilates in Athens, GA.
Suggested Reading
- Cancelliero-Gaiad, K. M., Ike, D., Pantoni, C. B., Borghi-Silva, A., & Costa, D. (2014). Respiratory pattern of diaphragmatic breathing and pilates breathing in COPD subjects. Brazilian journal of physical therapy, 18(4), 291– https://doi.org/10.1590/bjpt-rbf.2014.0042
- de Jesus, L.T., Baltieri, L., de Oliveira, L.G., Angeli, L.R., Antonio, S.P., Pazzianotto-Fort, E.M. (2015) Effects of the Pilates method on lung function, thoracoabdominal mobility and respiratory muscle strength: non-randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial. Pesqui. vol.22 no.3. http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?pid=S1809-29502015000300213&script=sci_arttext&tlng=en
- Hagag, A.A., Salem, E.Y. (2019) Pilates Exercises Improve Postural Stability, Ventilatory Functions and Functional Capacity in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. IOSR Journal of Nursing and Health Science (IOSR-JNHS), vol. 8, Issue 4 Ser. VI., PP 86-91 http://iosrjournals.org/iosr-jnhs/papers/vol8-issue4/Series-6/M0804068691.pdf
- Baglan Yentur S, Saraç DC, Sarİ F, et al. (2020). Fri0613-hpr the effects of pilates training on respiratory muscle strenght in patients with ankylosing spondylitis. Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases;79:912. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/annrheumdis-2020-eular.2129
References
- Pilates, J., William, J. M., Gallagher, S., Kryzanowska, R. (2000). The Complete Writings of Joseph H. Pilates: Return to Life Through Contrology and Your Health. BainBridge Books, Philadelphia, PA. (Originally written 1945)
Atrial Fibrillation – Living with a different beat
Our heart is at work literally 24/7 for us and without it doing this constant job for us, well, we know the consequences. An irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) can pose complications that increase the risk of having a stroke or even heart failure. It can be frightening for someone and can also impact their daily living.
Weight Loss Principles: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
Weight management is a, if not the, Holy Grail of lifestyle change for many, especially for women. Not that men don’t seem as concerned about their weight; it’s just that many men don’t see themselves as overweight when they look in the mirror – they see the same kid who played ball in high school.
Normally, I do not like to focus on weight loss. In taking a health professional’s perspective on weight, it’s just a number…until it’s not.
That is, focusing on weight is an excess we in the West – the wealthy, industrialized, relatively-safe from famine and disaster societies – tend to overindulge ourselves with. But, for those same reasons, we also are prone to illnesses and diseases that correlate with our lack of food scarcity. Thus, watching one’s weight is synonymous with watching one’s health unless one goes to extremes such as with eating disorders/disordered eating.
With this in mind, the advent and profusion of interest and usage of anti-obesity medications (AOMs) such as Wegovy, Ozempic, etc. are worth addressing.
As this blog post from the American College of Sports Medicine by Renee Rogers, Ph.D. FACSM (Dec. 18, 2023) discusses, the health and fitness professional (HFP) might feel threatened by a flurry of OAMs that might detract from his/her potential market. People who are trying or need to lose weight can now do so without having to engage the services of the HFP. In her essay, she notes that OAMs do work very well but that permanent weight loss and subsequent health and functionality still depend on maintaining a fit and strong body.
Also, now that we have meds that prove, essentially, that weight loss is not simply a function of willpower – that, because they work by effecting hormone changes that signal the brain and the GI system that they are not hungry, overeating is not necessary (excuse the simplification), people can now attend to engaging in healthful exercise and activity for other purposes: health (obviously), fitness, energy, fun, etc.
Finally, allow me to introduce Sheila Olsen, a freelance author on topics pertinent to health, fitness, and diet. Below is her excellent and well-researched review of weight loss for women. Thank you, Sheila, for reaching out to me and offering to contribute to the STEPS Fitness blog:
Losing Weight the Right Way: Tips for Women
Being healthy and at a healthy weight is important for everyone, but women have different health concerns than men and often lose weight differently.
The Differences
The biggest reason why men and women lose weight differently is hormones. For women, hormonal changes due to menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause can cause them to gain or lose weight. In addition, the hormones that control a woman’s appetite and metabolism are different from those that control a man’s. This means that women often have a harder time losing weight than men.
Another reason why women and men lose weight differently is that they tend to eat differently. Men are more likely to eat high-calorie foods and snacks, while women are more likely to snack on healthier foods like fruits and vegetables. This difference in diet can also lead to different rates of weight loss.
Though there are many reasons why women and men lose weight differently, the most important thing is that both sexes should focus on eating healthy foods and exercising regularly. By doing this, nearly everyone can achieve their goals for healthy weight loss, or at least healthy living.
Personal Training
Personal training services are specifically designed to support women on their weight loss journey, offering tailored fitness programs that cater to individual goals and needs. With a focus on sustainable and healthy weight loss, these services include one-on-one coaching, nutritional guidance, and customized workout plans that are both effective and enjoyable. The experienced trainers at Steps Fitness understand the unique challenges women face in losing weight and are committed to providing the motivation, support, and expertise needed to achieve lasting results.
Working Out at the Gym
Another great strategy for losing weight is to join a gym. Gyms offer a wide variety of machines and classes that can help you lose weight and get in shape. When working out at the gym, include cardio exercises such as running or elliptical training. Strength training is also crucial because it will help you build muscle mass, allowing you to burn off calories throughout the day.
Eating Mindfully
To lose weight, you must be mindful of the foods you eat. This means choosing healthy foods that are low in calories and fat. Diets high in processed foods and sugar can lead to weight gain, so it’s important to avoid these types of foods when trying to lose weight. Instead, focus on eating fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Additionally, be sure to drink plenty of water as this will help you stay hydrated and full throughout the day.
Consuming Caffeine
Caffeine is often highlighted for its potential effects on weight loss, especially among women, due to its ability to increase metabolism and enhance fat burning in the short term. Moderation is key, as excessive caffeine consumption can lead to unwanted side effects, so understanding and managing intake is crucial for leveraging caffeine’s benefits for weight loss effectively. For women considering caffeine as a part of their weight loss strategy, it’s important to be aware of the caffeine content in their favorite beverages. Online resources can be incredibly helpful for this, offering detailed information on the caffeine levels in various drinks, from coffee and tea to energy drinks and sodas. By consulting these resources, women can make informed decisions about their caffeine intake, ensuring it aligns with their health goals and dietary needs.
Staying Hydrated
As mentioned above, staying hydrated is key to losing weight. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day will help you feel full and satisfied so that you’re less likely to snack on unhealthy foods. In addition to water, green tea is an excellent beverage for weight loss as it contains antioxidants that can boost your metabolism. Aim to drink eight glasses of water or green tea per day.
Choosing the Right Health Insurance
Health insurance is an important factor to consider when it comes to trying to lose weight. Choosing the right health insurance plan can help you by providing meaningful support and resources that can make a huge difference in achieving your weight loss goals. Insurance plans can provide access to effective nutrition counseling and consultations. If you’re currently self-employed and not covered, you still have options. You can explore health insurance plans through the Freelancers Union or Affordable Care Act, or you can join your spouse’s plan.
Establishing SMART Goals
It can be helpful to establish SMART goals for your weight loss journey. SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-based goals. These goals should be realistic and attainable so that you don’t get discouraged along the way.
For example, a SMART goal might be “to lose 10 pounds in three months by eating mindfully and exercising three times per week.” This goal is specific (lose 10 pounds), measurable (three times per week), achievable (exercising three times per week), relevant (lose 10 pounds in three months), and time-based (in three months).
Managing Stress
One common health concern for women is managing stress. Stress can have many negative effects on your health including causing weight gain. When trying to lose weight, it’s crucial to find ways to manage your stress. Getting regular exercise, practicing meditation or deep breathing, journaling, spending time outside, and spending time with friends or family can all help.
How Surgery Can Help
Weight loss surgery, such as gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy, can be a beneficial option for individuals struggling with severe obesity and related health issues. These surgeries can lead to significant and sustained weight loss, helping to reduce the risk of obesity-related conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. Furthermore, they often lead to improved overall quality of life and increased mobility for those who have struggled with obesity for an extended period, making them a valuable tool in managing long-term health.
Whether you’re working with a personal trainer, walking more often, or finding a better health insurance plan, these tips can help women lose weight in a healthy way. Remember, every woman’s body is different, so what works for one person might not work for another. The most important thing is to find what helps you and stick with it. With consistency and perseverance, you can reach your goal weight and stay healthy!
Originally printed on STEPS Fitness blog. Reprinted with permission.
Dr. Irv Rubenstein graduated Vanderbilt-Peabody in 1988 with a PhD in exercise science, having already co-founded STEPS Fitness, Inc. two years earlier — Tennessee’s first personal fitness training center. One of his goals was to foster the evolution of the then-fledgling field of personal training into a viable and mature profession, and has done so over the past 3 decades, teaching trainers across through country. As a writer and speaker, Dr. Irv has earned a national reputation as one who can answer the hard questions about exercise and fitness – not just the “how” but the “why”.
Personal Trainer and the Healthcare Team
Musculoskeletal issues have become the number one reason for physician visits.(1) Doctors are starting to agree that many surgeries may have been unnecessary.(2) The opioid crisis is a symptom of a larger societal issue to be sure, but it appears that too many people are turning to pain medications to manage their various aches and pains. Certainly pain medication and surgery can help many diseases and symptoms. However, they can also have long-term detrimental effects on human health. Can supervised exercise contribute to helping the problems of too many surgeries and too many pain medications being prescribed?
The modern research on this subject continues to support the notion that properly dosed and executed exercise can have a long-term positive impact on pain and possibly reduce the need for surgery. Who in the health and wellness community conducts supervised exercise? The Personal Fitness Trainer and Exercise Professional.
Personal Trainers are sought out to create fun and challenging workouts, help people lose weight, or help athletes perform better for their sport. We feel that although important, this puts exercise professionals like personal trainers in too narrow of a box.
Can a Personal Trainer be more?
Can an Exercise Professional transcend these service niches and be considered part of one’s healthcare team?
We not only believe so, we think that we must.
Exercise has more power than we, and the exercise consumer, give it credit for. Exercise can stimulate powerful natural medicine to help individuals overcome chronic pain and possibly even avoid surgery.
Our goal is to trumpet this message to exercise professionals and consumers alike and work to support the development of the exercise professional to meet this demand. Our plan is to be one of the pioneers that move exercise to the forefront of healthcare as a powerful, and often overlooked, process to be integrated proactively within a healthcare team for supporting individual health where pain persists and surgery is being considered. Will you join us?
Article co-written by Greg Mack and Charlie Rowe of Physicians Fitness.
Greg Mack is a gold-certified ACE Medical Exercise Specialist and an ACE Certified Personal Trainer. He is the founder and CEO of the corporation Fitness Opportunities. Inc. dba as Physicians Fitness and Exercise Professional Education. Greg has operated out of chiropractic clinics, outpatient physical therapy clinics, a community hospital, large gyms and health clubs, as well operating private studios. His experience in working in such diverse venues enhanced his awareness of the wide gulf that exists between the medical community and fitness facilities, particularly for those individuals trying to recover from, and manage, a diagnosed disease.
Charlie Rowe has been in the fitness industry for almost 20 years, and currently a Muscle System Specialist at Physicians Fitness. He has also worked within an outpatient Physical Therapy Clinic coordinating care with the Physical Therapist. Charlie hold numerous certifications, including Cooper Clinic’s Certified Personal Trainer, NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, the ACSM Certified Health Fitness Specialist, Resistance Training Specialist Master Level, and ACE Certified Orthopedic Exercise Specialist Certifications. Charlie’s experience and continued pursuit of education make him one of the best in his field.
References
(1) Musculoskeletal Injuries: A Call to Action and Opportunity for Fitness Professionals, ACE Prosource 2013 by Nicholas A. DiNubile, M.D.
(2) Doctors Perform Thousands of Unnecessary Surgeries. Peter Eisler and Barbara Hansen, USA Today. Published 3:25 p.m. ET June 19, 2013. Updated 1:34 a.m. ET June 20, 2013