Content provided in partnership with

An emerging profession

American Fitness, July-August, 1996 by Neil Sol

The exercise and fitness industry is on the verge of what may be its greatest opportunity to gain increased involvement from Americans. The U.S. government will soon release the results of the Surgeon General's Report on Physical Activity and Health. This first-ever, unprecedented report is based on scientific research which indicates exercise is good for you.

Like the Surgeon General's report on smoking which was influential in motivating millions of Americans to quit, the expectation of this latest report is that it will motivate millions of sedentary Americans to become active. In essence, the report provides documented evidence which the U.S. government and its highest medical authority, the Surgeon General, are employing to endorse exercise for health promotion and disease prevention. It also recommends Americans of every age participate in regular physical activity.

Most Popular Articles in Health: Fuel your workout: exercisers who eat before they work out have more energy ...; Soothe a dry, itchy scalp: 5 easy expert solutions; Cocktails and calories: Beer, wine and liquor calories can really add up. ...; The sour truth about apple cider vinegar - evaluation of therapeutic use; The, six best supplements you've never heard of: these secret weapons can ...; More »

Although more people will have the desire to get involved in exercise, many will lack the know-how for safe, effective participation. AFAA, as a member of the National Health and Fitness Coalition, is committed to helping people put more physical activity into their lives. With its vast array of certified and qualified fitness professionals (including personal trainers and the comprehensively skilled AFP Fitness Practitioner[R]), AFAA is in a unique position to accept the challenge of offering direction to Americans interested in exercise and physical activity.

As a leader in training professionals to direct others in achieving a healthful life through physical activity, AFAA recently published An Emerging Profession: The Fitness Practitioner, a practical guide to implementing the scientific findings of the Surgeon General's report and helping fitness professionals bridge the gap between health care and wellness. In addition, AFAA created a national telephone hot line (1-800-YOUR BODY) offering educational information regarding exercise and lifestyle enhancement. Callers can also receive referrals for trained certified fitness professionals close to or within their communities.

AFAA's efforts in the fitness industry and the findings of the Surgeon General's report reinforce each other's message. Both motivate Americans and engage them in appropriate exercise programs for improved fitness and health.

AFAA recommends fitness professionals look for the release of the Surgeon General's report and read AFAA's newest textbook, An Emerging Profession: The Fitness Practitioner. Get both, become familiar with their content, and make yourself available to lead others in this latest effort to enhance the health and quality of life in America.

Chairperson of AFAA's AFP Fitness Practitioner[R] Advisory Board, Neil Sol, Ph.D., is also president of health Vantage, Inc., a health management consulting company.

An emerging profession

American Fitness, July-August, 1996 by Neil Sol

Find Research Guides for:

Find Featured Titles for: Arts

Most Popular Articles in Health

Most Popular Publications in Health