A Tribute to Michael L. Pollock, Ph.D

American Fitness, Nov, 1998 by Kelly Laidlaw

The health and fitness community lost an integral member last June 5th. Michael Lee Pollock, Ph.D., passed away from a brain aneurysm while attending the 45th Annual Meeting of the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). AFAA and American Fitness magazine wish to offer condolences to Pollock's family, friends and colleagues.

Pollock was a past president of ACSM (1982-1983), as well as a fellow of the American College of Cardiology, the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation, and ACSM. He also served as a consultant to the President's Council on Physcial Fitness and Sports (1972-1989). Pollock is the author of more than 230 articles and three textbooks on exercise physiology, physical fitness, cardiac rehabilitation and sports medicine.

Pollock was a pioneer in the fitness field. "Mike was instrumental in placing ACSM on the map in the exercise science arena," says ACSM president Paul D. Thompson, M.D. In 1972 Pollock became one of the first to emphasize the importance of standard exercise training guidelines. He also introduced strength training as a necessary element of a successful fitness regimen.

"Mike will be remembered for his innovative research," says ACSM president-elect Barry A. Franklin, Ph.D. "His pursuit of optimal frequency, intensity, duration and modes of exercise will be his legacy to the college."

During his career, Pollock completed a 20-year study of older athletes which provided information about the effects of aging on aerobic capacity, developed an exercise regimen to expedite recovery after cardiovascular surgery, proved higher intensity exercises create more musculoskeletal injuries than more moderate exercises and provided information demonstrating the benefits of exercise on osteoporosis prevention.

Those who knew Pollock speak of an individual who offered more than just an impressive resume. He approached his work and life with dedication and principle. As Jack Williams, Ph.D., of Texas A&M University, says of his close friend, "He was a man of integrity, which is the greatest tribute you can pay someone." He will be greatly missed.