The area of health, wellness, and fitness are made up of many dynamic professions. The sphere of health and fitness professions includes such positions as group fitness instructor; health and fitness specialist; wellness coach; personal trainer; health and fitness director; and specialty positions such as clinical exercise physiologist, registered dietitian, and public health educator. A few of these careers we have explored in earlier units (eg Module 11 coaching and fitness). However, this module will allow us to dig a bit deeper into some of the other career options in the broad area of health and wellness. A degree in Kinesiology can be a great launching point for many of the career options outlined in Chapter 13.
Although the scope of the professional work in this sphere is expanding to include a far more multifaceted view of health and fitness, the core goal of these professions is to improve physical functioning and physical health of individuals and communities. Health and fitness professions have traditionally been conducted in worksite, clinical, commercial, and community settings, but in recent years the lines between these settings have become blurred as each type of program or facility has expanded its offerings to reach more people and affect their lives in more ways.
Required Reading
Students are required to read Chapter 13 in the textbook
Read this article on promoting physical activity in the workplace. As you read try to think about the challenges and successes that can occur in this setting.. What type of professional can help with this type or program? Are these programs worth the cost?
Required Web Activities
Listen to this presentation from a Health Counselor
Listen to a presentation from a Health and Wellness Coordinator
Review the ACSM brochure on Reducing Sedentary Behaviors. As you read this brochure think about how a health and wellness professional could help make these changes?
Additional Study Resources:
Visit the web activities resource site for your textbook and work on the activities provided for this chapter. These are VERY helpful tools to help prepare for your exam and assist in your understanding of the material.
Students will show that they know this information by successfully passing exam #2
- What are the major topics of study in this field?
- What are some of the main concepts that are important to this field?
- What current issues are being explored by professionals in this field?
- How can this discipline contribute to a positive impact on society?
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