MagicOfExercisePhysiology

The acquisition of knowledge is gained in many different ways. As long as student or professional acquires information, the method works. For many reasons, this kind of thinking can be easily construed as promoting any and every. Does this surprise you? How many times has it been said, “No one should graduate from college without knowing how to think.” Such a statement might seem obvious, but is it? Are students taught how to think or what to think or is it they are taught both and, if so, which is taught more? If students are taught how to think, how is it different from what to think? And, if students are taught what to think, do they fail to learn how to think [1]? It seems reasonable, although not obvious, that teaching students how to think is harder than teaching them what to think. In fact, this raises a very interesting point, suggesting that that there is a difference between the two ways of thinking. Perhaps, a reason for teaching students how to think is to become aware and reflective of the relationship of things to each other. As an example, in considering this view, a person who dares to think differently takes on a certain risk from others.

For many years, students in a kinesiology course were taught applied anatomy. This is not the case today or even during the past 20 years [2]. Increasingly, teachers place less emphasis on anatomy and athletics and more on the teaching of biomechanics in the same course. While biomechanical principles are important, they should not replace applied anatomy. Students should not graduate from college without the ability to apply anatomy concepts and ideas. Why? Because it is important that students know the names of muscles and what they do. While the identification of muscles and the teaching of origins, insertions, and functions of muscles are important, students must also be taught how to think about muscles. This latter is more complex and not the same as being well-informed. In many ways, it is an entirely new frame of reference. Anatomy is not just about learning the facts about muscles. It is about having the knowledge and understanding that an anatomical comment or statement either makes sense. Knowledge of anatomy is needed to practice exercise physiology and, frankly, it is can be taught in a practical manner with many examples to life and sports.

"One learns by doing the thing; for though you think you know it, you have no certainty until you try." – Sophocles

Students should learn facts, but they should also learn the ability to describe why. For example, students must be able to explain why the brachialis is a stronger elbow flexor than the biceps brachii. Figuring out what makes one muscle stronger than another or how different muscles work together to carry out a joint motion among other competing ideas is the difference between how to think and what to think. The goal is not to learn just that the brachialis flexes the elbow (what to think), but why the brachialis is the powerhouse of the elbow flexes (how to think). The rationale for this position is as follows:

A fitness professional may understand that both muscles flex the elbow. The exercise physiologist should understand why (e.g., the brachialis is a one-joint muscle that inserts on a bone that permits only one motion vs. the biceps brachii; a two-joint muscle that inserts on a bone that rotates as well as undergoes flexion). Students should, therefore, be encouraged to ask questions and to look for detailed anatomical information (via visualization) that justifies their beliefs in the existing differences between the two muscles. It is the power of such knowledge that influences others to engage in thinking and behaviors that recognize the professionalism in exercise physiology.

It is often said that exercise physiologists know anatomy and can apply it to human movement conditions with the best of thinkers in healthcare. Do you think this is true? Well, unfortunately, it is not true. Not enough academic programs actually teach anatomy, especially at the doctorate level. So, turning to a doctorate exercise physiologist (perhaps, one just recently hired at the college level) to teach gross anatomy (much less oversee cadaver dissection) is rather foolish. Here again, this is not likely to be self-evident in exercise physiology because there is either so little talk about anatomy or the course per se no longer exists since it was dropped from the academic major years ago [3].

<>As a result, only a few academic exercise physiologists are prepared to teach gross (or applied) anatomy. Rooting out the fact exercise physiologists know very little about anatomy (or even have any interest in anatomy) is crucial to showing that teaching students how to think about “kinesiology” is far better than what to think. If exercise physiologists were to argue that they can, there is not much substance or truth to their thinking. In fact, take the following as an example of the subordinate role given to anatomy: “Greg, an exercise physiologist, turns to George, who is also an exercise physiologist in the same department, to ask him the following questions?”

Understandably, these are rather simple and straight forward questions. By no means are the answers the complete story. But without having a thorough knowledge of the shoulder muscles and nerves, there is no way to accurately evaluate the questions and come up with the right answers without guessing. And, most unfortunately, the problem is only going to get worse over time. This is without question a legitimate conclusion and, after all, it a direct result of failing to think correctly about the importance of anatomy to exercise physiology. Any thinking otherwise (e.g., from strength and conditioning) is unlikely to generate the right answers. When a person understands this point, dealing with those who claim they know anatomy when they don’t is at times difficult. They may be heard saying, “Who really cares about anatomy?” Of course that kind of thinking is incorrect and self-defeating because a thorough knowledge of anatomy is critical to the healthcare of clients.

Contrary to popular opinion, not knowing anatomy at the same level as students and teachers are expected to know, for example, the enzymatic steps in glycolysis or the role of Kreb’s cycle in making electrons available to the electron transport system (ETS) makes little sense. Similarly, expecting students to know that cytochrome A₃is the final electron acceptor for molecular oxygen, thus allowing for the oxidative phospholation of ADP to ATP, and not expecting (or even teaching) students to know that the superior gluteal nerve innervates the tensor fascia latae, gluteus medius, and gluteus minimus make little sense much less not knowing why the muscles function as they do individually and collectively at the hip joint.

The exercise physiologist’s appeal to biochemistry is also interesting, given that non-academic exercise physiologists are much more likely to need a thorough understanding of anatomy versus chemistry. The majority of observations of recent graduates highlight this point. Yet, exercise physiologists are quick to teach biochemistry as “evidence” of an exercise physiologist’s knowledge. They also enjoy studying and researching biochemistry; it provides a connection to “real” scientists. One might conclude the same with an increased emphasis on anatomy. However, it should be self-evident that is not the case at all. Because the problem seems obvious, the solution may appear to be equally simple. The truth is anatomy has been pushed to the side in favor of other subjects that are more entrenched in physiology.

As exercise physiology is a rather practical field of study that applies science to healthcare, the academic major in exercise physiology should emphasize the importance of all the subject areas if students are to thoroughly understand and evaluate the human body. This thinking applies to psychology, self-management and cognitive skills, and the power of one’s thinking along with business skills, and beliefs in maintaining and/or developing the integrity of the mind-body complex. Failure to delve into the psychophysiology of lifestyle diseases and/or disabilities is unacceptable. Students must be prepared to come up with answers for such issues and concerns that arise in regards to the mind-body interconnectedness. Self-management procedures is but one of the many options that need accurate assessment and application to help increase the client’s level of function and well-being.

Just as all thinking is not the same, it is correct to point out that not all organizations are the same either? For example, the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) is not the professional organization of exercise physiologists. The American Society of Exercise Physiologists (ASEP) is the professional organization of exercise physiologists [4]. Organizations such as the American Physical Therapy Association and the Occupational Therapy Association exist for physical therapists and occupational therapists, respectively. They do not exist for sports medicine or for exercise physiologists. Professional organizations guide the actions of members and encourage them to plan and coordinate their efforts toward professional development. Committee goals direct and guide the behavior of the members. ASEP or any organization for that matter cannot exist unless the activities of the members are directed toward achieving the goals and objectives of the organization. It is the power and specificity of the organizational goals that influence the members to engage in behaviors that are essential to their success.

In other words, how much weight students and others should give to an organization and whether they should support it depends on their ability to discriminate between good and bad arguments. Hence, to thoroughly understand an argument is to think clearly. Reasoning and arguing well takes work. The big question is whether students are taught how to think? Also, a similar question, if not, the same question is whether students are taught how to master the art of thinking? To reason well requires that students consider alternatives to the traditional way exercise physiologists think about commitment to themselves and colleagues. This is why “how to think" about exercise physiology ought to be integrated within the educational preparation of students. These are just a few thoughts on a subject that is seldom discussed by exercise physiologists. Meanwhile, there are many views and arguments that need the attention of members of the profession.

A variant on this theme is to ask your colleagues the following question, “Why do exercise physiologists need their own professional organization?” Or, perhaps, ask them, “Why do exercise physiologists need to support the accreditation of ‘exercise physiology’ programs of study and not so-called related degree programs?” There are many such questions to ask but, for now, isn’t it obvious and predictable how your colleagues would come back with a counter statement. Without being critical, only true to the science of groupthink, their thinking is all about what to think and not how to think about the profession of exercise physiology. This is a problem that is not trivia in the least bit. To the untrained eye the comments by the colleagues may make sense, particularly as their thinking seems to bridge today with yesterday’s thinking. This would likely encompass students and colleagues on the fringe of exercise physiology. This is the sort of outcome (thinking) that is quite fashionable at the moment.

Whether a colleague is talking about anatomy, biomechanics, sports nutrition, ECG, assessment, or exercise physiology, there is every concern that teachers are passionate about teaching all the courses and not just their favorite. From discussing the ventricular ejection to the transport of CO₂ to breakthrough thinking to developing the profession, there is evidence that this is not the case when it comes to the colleague’s interest. And if the reader is not aware of this point or is clueless that bias in course content, depth, and offerings exist within exercise physiology, it is time to reconsider the power of inertia (meaning, people are likely to stay as they are if it means avoiding work necessary to overcome external forces of any kind). This is not a harsh comment at all. It is the truth, and it is not just the exercise physiologist’s problem. However, now that it is so obvious, why not cut through the blind spots and misunderstandings? There is hardly any value in continuing in accordance with past thinking, especially since it is a contradiction to common sense. You do not need to think about this too long to know it is delusional to keep supporting the wrong course of action.

Delusional, that’s right. If exercise physiologists choose to believe someone in a power position who makes no sense at all because that person (by tradition) has status, then, it is delusional plain and simple. Maybe, what is not obvious is the person has a hidden agenda that, if understood, one would know the motives behind his/her statements. Perhaps, indeed, exercise physiologists should be especially skeptical about views of ASEP when they are dedicated members of other organizations. Also, they should be concerned about research findings that are outdated, projects that were funded by an interested party, use of the authors’ statistics that may have been manipulated or the selective analysis of the complete work. Exercise per se and exercise physiology (in particular) is too important to not think critically about, and done so with an open-mind that allows for updating one’s thinking when the facts change. Too often this is not the case with those who are comfortable with a particular view refuse to abandon it. Hence, before believing everything a person says about the ASEP exercise physiologists without knowing that person’s bias or intentions sets the stage for confusion and disappointment.

To the astonishment of some, they realize that not all of their colleagues are interested in exercise physiology and its future in healthcare. To keep trying to help them get the big picture when it is clear your time is wasted is to argue for an altogether different approach or strategy to promoting, for example, the American Society of Exercise Physiologists. Sometimes the colleague with average intelligence is actually very “average” after all. In these circumstances, it is better to understand this reality and move on to spreading your message with those who have the capacity to think for themselves. This may seem a lot easier than it actually is, especially since the probability is that the ASEP exercise physiologists are inclined to keep applying pressure. In the final analysis, remember this basic point, exercise physiologists (and students) who haven’t gotten it after 10 years are probably not worth the effort. They are too closely linked to the authority and/or groupthink of non-exercise physiology organizations [5]. Critical thinking exercise physiologists must learn to trust their instincts. One big step in this direction is to begin by asking questions, such as:

Think about it. Albert Einstein said that: “Problems cannot be solved by thinking within the framework in which they were created.” Sounds familiar doesn’t it. There is another famous quote that goes something like this: “When you find yourself in a hole, stop digging.” Both quotes should be self-evident but the reality is that one can’t assume that is the case at all. So, how about an explanation for each? First, the point of Einstein’s quote relative to the exercise physiology is that exercise physiologists can no longer solve their problems while trying do so from within non-ASEP organization. Second, if exercise physiologists were to continue trying to solve their problems in the usual ways they have tried, they will only find their problems getting worse. Most people can appreciate that the hole is deep enough and will only get deeper with failed thinking.

So, where are we at this point in “the future and how to think” as an exercise physiologist? The answer is simple or it should be. If exercise physiologists don’t start thinking right, if they don’t start thinking as professionals, they aren’t likely to get with the ASEP way of thinking (and the hole will get deeper). Also, if they don’t start asking “why” to everything that remotely associates with exercise physiology, they are telling everyone that they are not thinking critically. That’s the bottom line, and it isn’t a good one when other healthcare professionals have been asking questions for a 100 years (e.g., why this, why that, and why not). Asking questions is the act of working through possibilities and creating opportunities. Asking “why” is an act of thinking from which the mind is used to ponder and arrive at rational and logical conclusions. Thinking is the act of judging where exercise physiology has come from, where it is today, and what the future is going to be like. It is all about learning from the past and reasoning one’s way properly into the future. And it is about accepting the truth of “what is” versus “what can be” by visualizing something better and working to realize the vision. Everyone thinks but few seem to enjoy it. The power of the mind is the driving force to think of ideas, to draw inferences, and to arrive at new and viable conclusions.

"The best way to learn how to think is not to do as others say, but to think and to do with a passion."

Regardless of the forces of failed thinking that seek to impose constraints on the future of the ASEP perspective of exercise physiology, there is always a systematic way to articulate what needs to be done. And, as the Danish writer Jostein Gaarder noted in his novel, “Sophie’s World” – “The most subversive people are those who ask questions.” Hence, why not consider the following strategies in that they will be useful in promoting the exercise physiologist’s capacity to think better:

1.      Look at exercise physiology from the ASEP perspective. This means that if exercise physiologists are to gain knowledge about the importance of ASEP, then, they should begin by considering why exercise physiology is a healthcare profession and not a fitness profession. Also, they should begin by believing that if they continue to think as they have, they are not likely to know or understand different ways of thinking.

2.      Use the power of imagination to visualize the new exercise physiology. Even if exercise physiologists haven’t used visualization before to see things differently, it is possible to do so with a little work. Why not put what can be visualized on paper, as in illustrations, diagrams, or other ways of connecting the dots so to speak (e.g., definitions, visions, goals, objectives, credibility, accountability, standards of practice, bylaws, and so forth)?

3. Why not write an article that is evidence of the power to think differently and with a purpose beyond just another publication? Writing is an excellent means of coming to terms with what exercise physiologists are thinking or what they think will work. They shouldn’t be afraid of what they write, but instead just do it anyway. Even if it isn’t as good as other works they have done, all they have to do is keep at it because the future is full of surprises.

4.      Look for ideas in everything the exercise physiologist’s sees, hears, or reads. <>No matter what the subject matter may be, there is always something that is said or written that has a direct application to some aspect of exercise physiology. There are always new combinations of existing information that can be arranged and rearranged in countless ways to generate new ways of looking at the same subject matter. This applies especially to making connections between “dissimilar” subjects (e.g., math, psychology, ethics, philosophy, business, art, technology, religion, critical thinking, professionalism, leadership, and so forth).

5. Think with the determination and belief that exercise physiologists have the ability to think as well as other professionals. Exercise physiologists must learn the power in believing in themselves. They must learn to believe that they have the ability to control their own thoughts, to discipline themselves, and to get rid of anxiety or confusion. And they must never forget that determination and persistence are powerful weapons in realizing the future of their choice.

The point of these suggestions is simple. By applying them exercise physiologists will begin the “how to think” lesson, which obviously isn’t easy to learn. Power and politics are very emotional words [6]. Everyone seems taken by the power of others and even their power over them! Yet, every single person has the ultimate power to change their thinking and their life. All they need to do is shape their perceptions of exercise physiology in accordance with their own professional organization. To some of my students, this isn’t a lot to ask. To others, the road to success is entirely a different path. The answer, of course, regardless of the different paths to success or failure is the ability to act based on relevant knowledge.

Understanding Failure and the Willingness to Act
The next obvious question is, “When will students and exercise physiologists redirect their thinking from sports medicine to ASEP [7]?” Is it next week, next year, or next decade? The problem is that few people are capable of filtering out the political and social noise that distracts from forming personal opinions. What they need is belief in themselves as well as the willingness to act. And, of course, exercise physiologists must keep their eyes on the target and understand that they will make mistakes. There is no reason to dwell on a negative outcome. The key is to understand that success requires failures. In fact, the following is a list of failures of one person who never gave up.

This person, Abraham Lincoln, failed 10 times before he was elected president of the

United States

at age 52. No one likes to fail, but people learn (or can learn) from failure. The problem is not failure, but not having the hopeful expectation of success that goes along with giving a new idea a try. Why not commit to learning how to think about exercise physiology from the ASEP point of view? Why not believe as Anthony Robbins? He says, “Nothing has any power over me other than that which I give it through my conscious thoughts.”

Here is a simple exercise that may help you develop the ability to think for yourself. Have you had a student or a colleague turn to you and make a negative comment about ASEP? Have you heard anyone make light of the ASEP effort to professionalize exercise physiology? Lots of times a person could be confused as what was actually said, but if you have been subject to anyone of the earlier situations, stop for a moment, remain relaxed and aware of your own personal thoughts and feelings. Don’t let someone else’s problem become your problem. The key to this is to keep focused on “how to think” about your success in exercise physiology.

And, remember, Abraham Lincoln, failed 10 times before he was elected president of the

United States

at age 52. Everyone has a lot of time to either do nothing or do something. Why not do the latter? Why not get up tomorrow on fire with desire to think differently about exercise physiology? Or, perhaps, even better said, why not reach out now and do something today, then you will sleep better at night. What is important is this: By choosing to think differently you are choosing to shape the profession and that will help integrate exercise physiology into the 21st century view of healthcare.

The opposite of not acting is not necessarily a person who rejects the ASEP initiatives. The opposite of being non-professional is to fail to think right, is to not know what is the right action to take, taking sports medicine as if headless! Such individuals cannot keep exercise physiologists thinking as one, together and integrated, so that they do not fall victim of the failed rhetoric of sports medicine. They have lost their identity, namely, the have demonstrated that they do not know what they are anymore. For many of us, such failure is the impression of lost individuals. At one time they knew their way, appreciating that thinking right gives life to one's purpose, but without the ability to think right they now succumb to the opposite.

Sports medicine is now much like elevator music. It does nothing for you! It cannot build your professional foundation, precisely because it is a lust for something other than the hope that right thinking argues for. Hence, once moved in the sports medicine direction, once the idea of exercise physiology responsible to its own is given up, the person too is no longer that which he or she once was. To embrace an organization other than one's own profession is to fall apart, as is evident in the crumpling of mis-managed ideas of recent accreditation of exercise science programs. What does it profit to accredit programs that are not career-driven in the public sector? In a manner of speaking, too much of same old dogma is simply too much chaos.

This has immense practical implications for ASEP exercise physiologists, for they can be confident that their work is the result of healthy thinking. It is for this reason, that "how to think" has always been better than "what to think." And, along these same lines, it is fascinating to not realize that it is critically important to exercise physiology professionalism. It is important t realize this, not for ASEP only, but because it is exactly the approach taken by the established healthcare professions. Hence, to properly understand what we need to do, we need to study the history of nursing, physical therapy, and others. What they done and continue to do can give us insight into what ASEP leaders have done and why.

The same spirit that drives the other professions exists also with exercise physiologists who believe in ASEP [8]. They are part of a change process that yearns for something better. For all kinds of reasons, every exercise physiologist has the right to struggle with his or her background or not, but it should be respected either way, particularly when the despair is central to the struggle. Here, it is not always easy to know the right path, but ASEP is one where members choose to be different. In many ways, that is exactly what gives them a professional advantage over non-members.

The current struggle whether to support ASEP is a personal one as it should be. Nobody should be above one's own personal decisions regarding what constitutes the right path to take. Clearly it should not be taboo or prohibitive to index one's thoughts and desires, however judged by others. The very desire for personal expression is especially appealing and appropriate, certainly not to be feared. Yet exercise physiologists are naïve about the nature of professionalism. Unlike physical therapy for example, we consider just any certification is good enough, as witnessed by the health and fitness instructor certification and the personal training certification.

Mostly the problem is the failure to think right. That is why exercise physiologists went the way of clinical exercise physiology, so they could keep others from joining their ranks. Ours is the age of how to think about exercise physiology, how to control it, and how to cope with healthcare problems through the exercise physiologist's prescription of exercise. Unfortunately, most academics are totally unprepared for the struggle of becoming our own, and so they end up publishing another paper or going to another "professional" meeting. This naiveté is, to my mind, one of the major stumbling blocks to the tasks that underpin professional development.

Being habitually preoccupied with "more of the same is better," we have failed to turn the corner on channeling our needs correctly. In other words, defined simply, this is a good view of the "what to think" mentality so common among all of us today. History is partly to blame, but primarily the real problem is the failure from within to find one's true place in life. What this means is that the exercise physiologist has to serve and be served. The first is done in many different altruistic capacities. The second, to be served, is allowing others, like ASEP leaders, to help them with their decisions.

It isn't just useful but imperative to address these kinds of questions. How to think about exercise physiology is something not learned from our history. Yes, without a doubt, history has shaped exercise physiology as have the more popular contemporary texts. However, simply put, exercise physiology is more than the view stated in these texts. And so if you walk the way of the ASEP vision, you would find a bevy of ideas on ethics, professionalism, accreditation, board certification, and standards of practice; all part of a larger picture focused on healthcare.

Of course this distinction requires a person to search for the truth. Among all the different organizations, which have real concerns for exercise physiologists and which are fads? What is useful or harmful in non-exercise physiology organizations? More specifically, for exercise physiologists, what should be their responsibility be in supporting the profession? What should they ignore or reject and why? The right answer to these questions is driven by the truths laid out by others who have gone before us. They are the nurses, physical therapists, massage therapists, music therapists, and countless others. Members from each profession understand the nonnegotiable truths, that is, those that cannot be ignored.

For all kinds of reasons, many doctorate prepared exercise physiologists in academic institutions, and non-doctorate exercise physiologists in particular, do not share in these essential truths. And, frankly, this is something that takes us away from our true destiny [10]. To think for a moment, how will we be judged in the future, knowing that we have not treated each other with the respect that we should. In many ways, this thinking lies at the heart of every profession since there can be no real professional relationship with each other when the future of the profession is neglected. Hence, anyone who claims to be an exercise physiologist but refuses to deal with the ASEP organization is not a professional, for one can only be a true professional if he or she is concretely involved with a community of professionals. This is unfortunately something many of us do not want to hear. We want everything that goes with being an exercise physiologist, but we don't want to commit to professionalism.

To concretize this somewhat, this is the crux of learning how to think about professionalism [11]. Our mission as exercise physiologists is precisely to form professional relationship within our own professional organization. It is there that we should bring our hopes and our fears to each other to see what we can do to shape them. United, we will stand, shoulder to shoulder, with other professionals, although very different from ourselves, we share a common creed and, thus a means to bridging our differences. But, united means coming to an agreement on the essentials of professionalism in exercise physiology: integrity, professional duty, accountability, altruism, compassion and caring for others, and a responsibility to society.

The quote by Schillebeeckx is the essence of an earthquake, shaking men and women from their usual comforts knowing or at least hoping that "what they dream can become their reality." Right now, I'm not sure what is otherwise the importance of dreaming other than waiting, watching, and hoping for a new reality; one filled with justice for students, equality for professionals, respect for all those who help others, and power enough to financially secure one's family matters. That is it. Hardly anything more gives birth to the need to change things. And, because ASEP leaders are dreamers, it is just a matter of time before the new agenda with fewer problems becomes the new reality.

Hence, will you dream with me? "How does it feel to be an exercise physiologist of the future?" I'm assuming that being in the future you feel your education is respected, even celebrated among your colleagues? In fact, those who pause long enough to consider your education, the accredited academic program you graduated from, and the distinctly-recognized professional course work and laboratory experiences, will look at your Board Certification and know that you are a "credible professional." Of course, the "future" is now for every person who wants to explore the new ASEP vision and definition of exercise physiology. The ASEP view is for men and women who are willing to think differently about exercise physiology. It is not those who need someone to tell them what to think. It is for a new kind of student who is being forged in the aftermath of the chaos of decades of failed thinking. It is for students who are willing to undertake a new way to think; a vision of professionals with fire in their belly and passion in the heart. The path it follows is the journey of other professionals. They understood the same need to depart from yesterday's failed rhetoric [12]. They, too, figured out what the problem, what life would be like without it, and how to think themselves into a better state of mind and wholeness.

ASEP finally broke the symbiotic sports medicine, physical education pattern of the 20th century exercise physiology. Now, essentially 10 years from the start, it is how a person thinks that separates him or her from the others. The sort of person who reads about professionalism is dedicated to a life of discipline and status unlike anything done before. After all, professionalism is credibility, credibility is status, and status makes the healthcare professions what they are today. Increasingly, work in healthcare provides a sense of something worth doing. A swirl of thoughts and feelings flood the person who has recently accessed a position in healthcare. But every person knows this is only half of the truth. Any way you slice it, jobs are often only as good as the salary to pay off college tuition bills.

It is not that a college degree in and of itself isn't a good thing. But the idea that a college education, as in a liberal arts degree or an exercise science degree, is what should matter (and not whether a person can earn a living) is fundamentally flawed. Listen to those who have graduated and beneath their stares into blank space is depression and anger. No matter how hard exercise science faculty talks about how great their exercise science degree is, they can only bring pleasure or joy to a few graduates. The majority of the graduates spend nearly as much of their time trying to figure out what went wrong and what they should do now. Most surrender to a different degree program and hope, therefore, the testimonies of others will save them.

Whether or not students, faculty, and others get it is a measure of their willingness to consider the facts. First, students must recognize the value in taking time to read an essay on exercise physiology or, perhaps, create the opportunity to speak with others who have gone before them. Whether exercise physiologists get it will depend to a large degree how prejudiced or compassionate they are with the sports medicine community. Practically speaking, the way forward out of this mess is to look backward into how and why we got this way. Exercise science is a heart beat in course work from a major in physical education. Most of the faculty members know this, yet they act on the surface as though it is a forgotten fact. It may have been okay to change the name from physical education to exercise science in the 60s or 70s, especially with the discontent that was centered against physical education programs throughout the college and university campuses. But, after a time, adherence to the idea is ever-obvious a mistake [13].

Exercise science has many names, many faces. It is sports sciences or kinesiology. It can be human performance. An academic degree is only of value when it makes things happen, only when it gives the receipt some control over his or her life, over finances, over the future. It makes things happen! The challenges that face academic institutions are real. Tuition costs continue to rise year after year. The choice is simple. Exercise science has to go. Why? Because the rite of passage imposed on all college graduates requires them to demonstrate independence, financially speaking. This is a big thing, as it should be. College is supposed to make it happen, to help students assume the responsibility for ordering and controlling their world. It is their path towards freedom.

The truth, which exercise physiologists have conspired to forget during the last 70 years, is that much of what is exercise physiology is an integral part of the tradition of physical education. But, although the latter has changed little over many decades, exercise physiology is now inseparable from healthcare. This is not the case with exercise science. There is nothing more urgent than faculty members learning how to think about the wasteful and consuming ways of a program that is part and parcel of physical education but without legs. As an example, take the following statement from the web page of a major university:

The major in Kinesiology focuses on the study of human performance within a biophysical context, including aspects of anatomy, physiology, chemistry, physics, biology, nutrition, and computer science. The study of human performance is thus a cross-disciplinary subject field and is referred to as the academic discipline of Kinesiology. For the major in Kinesiology, courses taken outside the department include: physics, chemistry, math, and computer science. These courses provide the foundation for the Kinesiology courses that apply the basic scientific principles to the study of movement.

Career opportunities for employment exist in recreation and health and fitness centers, exercise rehabilitation programs (for cardiac, pulmonary, stroke, psychiatric patients, etc.), as both exercise leaders and exercise test technicians, as consultants to business and industry, and with manufacturers of sport and rehabilitative equipment. An undergraduate major in Kinesiology prepares students for continuing study in exercise physiology, ergonomics, biomechanics, preventive medicine, physical therapy, physician assistant, and a variety of exercise and fitness occupations. – Umass Amherst Department

This is the paradox. Many well-educated men and women in academia will not recognize what we are about to conclude, and yet every one of them, as parents, would not want their children in college wasting time and/or money majoring in exercise science. Their resistance to change is mostly the failure to see the problems around them. Just because things have always been done a certain way in a department or school and just because there are willing students does not make it right. The very idea of continuing "as is" makes no sense. Please read the following analysis of the two paragraphs reflectively, and you will understand how things have gone terribly wrong.

Okay, now imagine another student who says, "I can read ECGs just like nurses can." Maybe, you ask her the following question: "Can you cardiovert the patient if he goes into ventricular fibrillation?" The student says in response, "No, but I know how to do it." Now, this distinction is where the rubber hits the road. Knowing how to do something and being recognized (and allowed) to do it are two entirely different conditions. There may in fact be some men and women who know from hours and hours of reading how to treat certain diseases and even the right medical care for the patients. But, since these individuals are not licensed medical doctors, they cannot practice medicine. Always remember that "title" is a powerful and appropriate delineation for all the obvious reasons.

Emerson said: "What is the hardest task in the world?" His answer might surprise you. "To think," Emerson said. Without question this must be true as it is clear that so many exercise physiologists are not thinking. Most of their students are victims of the mass failure of their faculty to take up the importance of "how to think about exercise physiology." Why not take up the challenge to change exercise science to exercise physiology? In fact, it makes all the sense in the world to do so. If the reader is troubled by my comments, why not sleep on them? Maybe tomorrow it will be easier to wake up with the willingness to go a different path. After all, as Winston Churchill said: "The price of greatness is responsibility."

"Buying food is Brenda's responsibility." "Students are responsible for getting their papers in on time." In each of these sentences the notion of responsibility is used. Generally speaking, we accept our responsibility for many things throughout an ordinary day. "Teachers are responsible for showing up to class on time and delivery their lectures." "Drivers are responsible for stopping at a stop light." The list goes on and on, but what happens when we stopped being responsible? Specifically, what happens when academic exercise physiologists are not responsible professors? The answer is chaos, such as we presently have in the 30+ different undergraduate degree titles; each one at significant tuition cost. Shouldn't the first responsibility of those who oversee academic programs is to do so with integrity? Why not ask the following questions?

The answers to these questions will help make explicit that "responsibility" is an integral relation between the department chair and faculty who are responsible for the integrity of the product (academic degree) and students who buy the product (career opportunities). It is not just the exercise physiologists who are responsible for the product, but also the department chair and/or administrators of the academic institution. Vice-presidents and others might not be directly responsible for the problems that result from the degree program, but nonetheless bears the burden of responsibility for the disappointments and frustrations entailed in the supervision of a department he or she has deemed to be okay.

The personal capacity to respond to the exercise science chaos is central to the understanding that every decision involves taking of risks. The responsible exercise physiologist is accountable to doing the right thing even when it may bring on negative consequences. Ironically, the right thing is often defined as "service," which is associated with positive physiological results. The most important thing is that the destiny of mankind (and exercise physiology) is linked to the willingness to respond to the needs of others (students in particular), which reminds of a quote by George Bernard Shaw: "We have not lost faith, but we have transferred it from God to the medical profession." There is much truth in quote. With just a little alteration, the quote becomes: "We have not lost faith, but we have transferred it from ourselves to sports medicine."

The newly written quote bears directly on all exercise physiologists and their need to reinvest themselves in what is likely to be the greatest challenge of their lives (i.e., exercise is medicine). While it shouldn't be difficult to think the same, it is clear that it will take time. Exercise physiology is a healthcare profession just like nursing, although there is an overwhelming emphasis on disease and illness in most nursing educational programs [15]. Exercise physiologists are educated to help clients focus on secondary and primary prevention to improve health status through lifestyle and behavior changes. They teach and facilitate client self-care strategies to increase fitness, nutritional status, stress management, positive thinking and beliefs, and spirituality. Thinking in terms of client versus athlete is a shift from the exercise physiologist's emphasis on athletics to healthcare. Regular, low- to moderate-intensity exercise improves a client's cardiovascular system, increases strength, endurance, and flexibility, induces positive changes in the digestive and immune systems [16]. In fact, many of these benefits include the following:

Noting the changes in mind and body just listed, a person can come to terms rather quickly with the benefits and, therefore, the control that regular exercise helps to bring about in one's life. It is highly probable that there are numerous other benefits we don't yet understand or have not itemized. Hence, it is hardly necessary to point out that the range of possibilities is likely to be huge.

Barbara K. Redman [17] said: "The issue, then, is appropriate reform of a health care system whose costs are out of control and that still does not adequately serve the people’s needs." From its beginning, exercise physiology has been more than athletics or sports training. This view however has not always been well received even though exercise has been recognized as medicine for decades [18]. However, not until more recently has there been the consideration of exercise physiology and spirituality [19-21]. What is obviously missing in exercise physiology is a holistic approach to health promotion. Clearly, there is sufficient reason to believe that diseases and disabilities are the result of many factors acting in synergy [22]. Failing to take these points and others into consideration is an act of irresponsibility. There are simply too many healthcare issues and concerns to turn a blind eye to this reality.

But, first, exercise physiologists must look at the facts that exercise physiology is a healthcare profession. Second, they must articulate their role in healthcare in a very specific and professional manner. Third, their history as physical educators, exercise scientists, and/or sports trainers must be properly understood. Today, after no longer having to be under the directive of a sports medicine and exercise science way of thinking, at the very time when “exercise as medicine” is recognized worldwide, exercise physiology finds itself in middle of a great opportunity to contribute significantly to the health and welfare of the citizens of the United States. This is a direction and role as professionals that exercise physiology cannot be put aside or overlooked.

However, without licensure or regulatory control over “exercise” the larger issue is who is more responsible for the prescription of exercise better than exercise physiologists? While there may not be widespread knowledge or recognition that exercise physiology is a healthcare profession, no one is better academically or technologically prepared to deal with exercise than the exercise physiologist. The profession is at the center of this storm. Its decades of scientific research, service, and philosophy are congruent with the application of exercise to society’s needs. Hence, without question, exercise physiologists have the responsibility and the opportunity to actualize the power of exercise within the context of their standards of professional practice and care of clients [23-24].

Needless to say, the healthcare system in the

United States

is out of control. The costs are beyond common sense and the ability of most people to pay without major disruption in their lives. Simply stated, the system fails in serving the needs of society. There are no serious measures to contain costs. These points are well known facts, although much of society (including healthcare professionals) is still in denial. The system impacts exercise physiology because it requires licensure and 3rd party payments for most healthcare services. The fact that since exercise physiology is not a licensed profession keeps the system from incorporating exercise physiologists as members of the healthcare team. This is a big problem because exercise should be applied by exercise physiology experts with the knowledge to use exercise safely and appropriately.

There must be a substantial improvement in the use of exercise as a medical treatment [23]. Americans are not getting their money’s worth from the present healthcare system [17]. And the exploitation of exercise by fitness instructors is not consistent with the quality and benefits of exercise provided by exercise physiologists. Many non-exercise physiologists profit from the use of exercise and, yet their sense of exercise is neither a scientific-driven process nor equitably delivered. What is more unsettling is that the profit is motivated by self-interest that is equally as problematic as the myriads of costly and inconsistent services rendered by American’s healthcare system.

Attention to the importance of exercise is critical in today’s healthcare. It may be the only way to avoid the costs, that is, by keeping society healthy. And, yet the bureaucracy and administrative costs in healthcare continues to increase with the medical community practicing defensive and unnecessary medicine. Controlling costs is not even in their minds or actions within the dominant healthcare system. In fact, the relationship between hospitals and doctors is a failed one for maintaining health and for managing society’s healthcare problems. Consumers have no position or power in managing or constraining the aggregate costs. It is entirely in the hands of budget administrators, physicians, and the insurance companies. What makes all this so pertinent is that it is very much like the fox guarding the hen house!

It is noteworthy that the ASEP leadership acknowledges exercise as having a positive and therapeutic benefit in strengthening the health and well-being of individuals who regularly exercise [25]. This is why ASEP developed the Exercise Physiologist’s Standards of Professional Practice [26]. Regular exercise is at the center of healthcare reform. In fact, it may very well be the use of exercise within corporations and businesses that help the CEOs, boards, and employers to realize greater profits with less spending on employee health benefits. And it should not be forgotten that small businesses, in particular, are struggling to keep up with medical cost to payers.

On the positive side, what can the ASEP organization do? The answer is threefold: First, exercise physiologists can present and discuss the economic trajectory of healthcare cost in terms of the alternative (i.e., exercise). Second, exercise physiologists should write a white paper in declaration of the benefits of regular exercise. Third, exercise physiologists should acknowledge their role as caregivers and client educators in, perhaps, yet to be realized Exercise Physiology Healthcare Clinics. There isn’t any question that such services will have a positive impact on the healthcare services within the

United States

Each of the three points is not without some challenges, especially given the pressure to do research and channel one’s energy along the established ways of thinking about exercise physiology. Many just don’t see exercise physiology as a healthcare profession. It would appear that some would rather keep things as they have been for decades. Of course, it is clear that the old way is certainly good for exercise physiologists in academic settings. They are, it seems, very much conditioned, programmed to the old thoughts and attitudes continually being shaped and molded by sports medicine. Who cares, right? By now, it should be obvious that it is an exhausting and endless task to keep explaining this the exercise physiology community. And, yet keeping things as they have been for years is a lot less beneficial for non-academics and for society at large.

A second challenge, which is related to the first, is the support or, perhaps, more appropriately the failure to obtain support from the majority of exercise physiologists, regardless of their degree status. It seems, after all, that many exercise physiologists are truly interested in athletics and sports performance (especially sports nutrition) and not so much healthcare. This is not an illusion by any means. In fact, it may be rather difficult to locate a high percentage of academic exercise physiologists with a concern for the health of the American society. They trace their roots to athletics and human performance. Aside from rational thought in regards to cardiac rehabilitation, the idea that society’s use of exercise is greatly dependent upon the advancement of exercise physiology isn’t usually part of their daily agenda. This is just one important step from which the profession must build itself from inside out to help foster the necessary application of exercise as medicine.

Not having a consensus at this time of all exercise physiologists committed to the ASEP organization renders the promotion of exercise as medicine tenuous at best. It certainly isn’t impossible to move forward nor is it right not to do so even with a smaller mass along as the exercise physiologists are completely dedicated to healthcare reform via regular exercise. And even with the split among exercise physiologists, there is positive movement forwards. Understandably, exercise is just one fix to the escalating cost and diminishing returns in healthcare services. There are many in-roads for improvement and much that needs to be done at the state and federal levels. Not surprisingly, this is a common understanding that isn’t complex at all.

What is obvious as these issues and concerns are raised, considered, and corrected to the degree allowed for within the system is that exercise can help prevent at best and postpone at worse the inevitable healthcare events most people will suffer from. This is exactly why exercise physiologists must be ready and qualified to provide guidance to the public on how to deal with risk factors for common diseases and disabilities. And, in this regards, given the lack of scientific understanding of exercise as medicine by so-called fitness experts and the likely of a negative impact on healthcare, the profession of exercise physiology must improve its image and availability of exercise physiology services for the public and the professional work place for exercise physiologists. They must anticipate and be ready for all possible means of intrusion into their practice by non-exercise physiologists who are traditionally established healthcare practitioners.

It is natural to expect that every change in the direction of increased involvement in healthcare will be met with significant changes in exercise physiology education. The ASEP accreditation guidelines will play an important role in the upgrade of the undergraduate’s education that is presently less than desirable throughout the

United States

. There is strong incentive for developing consistent courses and hands-on experiences for students at all levels of their education. This also applies to increased work towards integration of course content and shared collaboration with other healthcare programs.

If access to healthcare with decreased cost doesn’t happen in the next 20 years, the conditions of payment will deteriorate so badly that the 46 million uninsured today will look like a rain drop in a pond of misery. In the middle of the epidemic of distress there will be significant increases in conflicts of interest among all healthcare practitioners. Now is the time to invest in important strategies to pave the way for exercise physiology to meet the healthcare needs of the

United States

. Exercise physiologists cannot afford to continue along the same path of research as being more important than the immediate application of an evidence-based exercise prescription. Just imagine, healthcare spending may reach 17% of the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP) by 2011. This is an increase from 13.2% in 2000 [27]. This is a huge increase in public health spending, and is an even more reason for exercise physiologists to get moving on their in healthcare reform.

But, unfortunately, tardy as many members of the profession have been in response to ASEP will only continue to define exercise physiologists as less than capable to their competitors (particularly, physical therapists). It also will signal a significant disadvantage in the 21st century leadership that will encourage those with their eyes open to gain from the exercise physiologist’s decades of research. Not knowing how to do research or to interpret the research correctly, their role in helping the aging population and the increasingly disabled, the obesity and the rising problems of failed eating habits, as well as the multitude of other healthcare issues and concerns will very likely be accepted by society without knowing the differences between exercise physiology and exercise science or related degree programs. This will have an unfortunate negative spin on exercise physiologists if they have not made the necessary separation from fitness instructors and related individuals with meaningless degrees and/or certifications.

Just think about it: It would be a serious situation, indeed, to encourage seniors suffering from chronic diseases to get advice from Mr. 6-pack abs or Miss Tights. Regardless of costs skyrocketing or even the millions of dollars spent to bring a drug to market, Mr. 6-pack abs, the personal trainer, is a bad idea for healthcare. And, unfortunately, the trends are ominous: The length of education for non-exercise physiologists is often high school. Few are, therefore, in position to obtain a serious certification. And, as one might expect, the number of weekend certifications is increasing. There is now an industry that, in spite of its obvious intentions, is marketing individuals to prescribe exercise as if they actually understood the word “prescription.” The sad tragedy is that the industry is crippling those who “think” they are prepared to achieve credible and safe levels of healthcare. No one with arthritis, diabetes, or high cholesterol should seek out non-qualified and often expensive personal trainer types. The growth of personal trainers per se is mistake built on grossly inadequate thinking.

Strangely enough, much of this growth is the result of mismanagement of exercise physiology. For decades, the rate of increase in research publications is likely to be highly correlated with the exponential increase in personal trainers just as it is obvious that spending on prescription drugs is hugely responsible for the growth in healthcare costs. This growth is also largely responsible for this worrisome trend in personal trainers, as though all trainers and drugs actually work. No one is seriously looking to raise the educational bar of trainers, especially if it should distract from the bottom line of the supplement and/or certificate industry. So-called innovations and high-tech exercise products, especially sports supplements, and even gene therapy and other entirely crazy performance enhancers are being tailored to clients by personal trainers! The proliferation of the non-sense seems to have no end.

Not surprisingly, exercise physiologists are not a dubious subset of the fitness instructors. Society would be well advised to seek out an exercise physiologist, although their inclusion in healthcare is not automatic or an absolute given by any means. There is still much work to done, especially with the top-heavy researchers and others who are aggressively marketing sports supplements and/or different kinds of exercise equipment. In time, however, there will be more leaders and more independent thinkers. The blockbuster problem with exercise physiologist is the risk of committing to just research when the more effective approach requires healthcare reform advocates. Of course the reality is there is even a greater risk to society, if not absurdity, that results from havoc and escalating costs of healthcare services and, in particular, retail sales of prescription drugs. Exercise physiologists are the definitive professionals to provide scientifically sound health information about the benefits of exercise to American consumers. It is just a matter of time that the public will place its total trust in what exercise physiologists write and/or say about exercise, health, and wellness and rehabilitation.

The future is waiting to happen [28]. As they say, “It’s all good.” Exercise physiologists have a lot to learn about autonomous and accountable care, but they will. The future is bright, although there is work to be done. The increasing costs of health care will ultimately drive clients to exercise physiology. After all, healthcare costs are out of control, and the quality of healthcare is a concern. The profession is limited only by its vision and the willingness of exercise physiologists to come together.

It is never too late to think differently [29]. Prime Minister Winston Churchill said it best: "Never give in. Never give in. Never, never, never, never -- in nothing, great or small, large or petty--never give in, except to convictions of honor and good sense. Never yield to force. Never yield to the apparently overwhelming might of the enemy." In fact, Churchill's statement is very much the same message as that of Abraham Maslow, "A musician must make music, an artist must paint, a poet must write, if he is to be ultimately at peace with himself." Perhaps, it added that an exercise physiologist must practice exercise physiology if he is to be at peace with himself.

Almost invariably, these particular words help to motivate and sustain people with their challenges. It is now clear that they are not new words, especially to exercise physiologists. But, as is often the case, it is unclear how these words actually drive people to stay the course, just as "knowledge is power” is believed to be powerful. But, of course, knowledge is a composition of words and, therefore, words give provide the power to do things, to persist, and to not give up. It is important to remember that emotions are linked to words. Note this point in the sentence, “Before you leave, think of what you are doing. There will be consequences.” The implications of one’s actions and the consequences thereof are understood.

The biochemistry of statements such as: “Never Giving In” and “Think About it” is real. Our minds react to the emotions linked to the words that result in certain behaviors and feelings, good and bad. In fact, when most professionals hear the words “Take Action,” instantly their minds begin racing for identifiable possibilities. The internal dialogue that takes place within their minds and hearts often results in being flexible yet determined to succeed. What all this leads to is a simple, inescapable fact. Individuals who never give up produce positive results that are directly linked to the power in words that, perhaps, only their inner person understands. All exercise physiologists can connect with this power by simply unleashing the magic within words. In fact, just imagine the greatness that comes from their “passion” to realize a dream. It is both consuming and energizing, and it is the difference between those who make it and those who do not.

“Belief” is another powerful word. It’s often a person’s belief that sets the course of events [30]. The ASEP beliefs define exercise physiologists in the Society. Hence, their power lies in their belief, and it is awesome! Remember this very important point, “If exercise physiologists believe they can or can’t, they are right.” Often, this is exactly why belief precedes strategy. The word “strategy” itself is a mental statement that declares a way or method, if not, the key to realizing one’s goals. Strategies are important because no one enjoys being powerless. The way around it is through words and strategies. It is possible to enjoy the benefits of power through the right handling of words that enable a mental state of confidence and inner strength.

<>People who have achieved positive results understand, as Anton Chekhov said, “Man is what he believes.” Before writing more, the question before the reader is simply this: “Do you believe the American Society of Exercise Physiologists is the professional organization of exercise physiologists in the

United States

?” Also, do you believe that the ASEP organization is the birth of the 21st century exercise physiology? My point here is that the letters, not a word per se, ASEP, are rather a miraculous happening in the

United States

, given the lack of support by so many academic exercise physiologists. They have totally changed the state of exercise physiology, and its potential for effectiveness in healthcare via the prescription of exercise as medicine. This, itself, the belief in ASEP, a small organization is equal to a force of thousands of members with an interest elsewhere.

Far too long exercise physiologists have been disempowered. Without their own guiding beliefs, they didn’t even develop decades ago their own code of ethics. It is truly a sad picture of failed thinking. Beliefs have power, but without insight into the right words there is no power or awareness. The failure is so great that it is overwhelming at times to think about. So again, the purpose of this brief article is never forget, as Prime Minister Winston Churchill said, “never given in.” Similarly, “never give up” thinking better things about exercise physiology from the ASEP perspective. Never, never, never, and never stop believing in new and viable career opportunities made possible through the new ASEP professional infrastructure.

ASEP leaders know the path to success. They have taken the right measures to realize success, and they have the desire and flexibility to do whatever is necessary to be successful as healthcare professionals. Their thoughts and collective mindset are organized for a reason and a purpose and that is to insure the future of exercise physiology in the

United States

. The leaders understand there are limitations and challenges. Yet, they have taken the responsibility on. They know that ASEP, as the professional organization of exercise physiologists, is responsible for doing what it has declared important to do.

The power in the title, ASEP, is the same kind of power that comes from words. It engenders commitment and, therefore, a willingness to walk the walk. The power comes ultimately from your brain and the mental picture that is created by it in regards to ASEP. Perhaps, this point is too little understood and needs clarification. It is this: Words are created from within the mystery of the brain. The images and feelings that associate with words direct our actions and give rise to our success. Hence, the brain is the ultimate source of power, and all you have to do is use it accordingly. Just as winning is said to start with the first step, words represent the force to take the step. Words convey the reason why and how to in the change process. This certainly shouldn’t come as a surprise. Words connect us or, at least, the right words connect us. The wrong words can divide and diminish what exercise physiologists are or can become. The trick is to think right and use the right words, especially those congruent with what exercise physiologists’ value and believe to be important for credibility, recognition, and acceptance.

Try developing a picture of exercise physiology in 20 or 40 years from now. When you can see the results of your work, when you can feel the outcome of your dreams, and when you can believe what you are seeing, then “believe” that the clear message your mind is sending to you is a composite of knowing the outcome, taking action, and being flexible to realize the dream. The key is the power in words that gives power to your thinking. In view of this point, perhaps, the following sentence will make sense. “Where there are no goals, there is no future or hope.” Maybe this is also a good time to mention the power in the words of the, “I have a dream” speech by Martin Luther King, Jr. Wouldn’t it be fantastic if an exercise physiologist would deliver a similar speech before all those who feel they are second class citizens?

Words are powerful and, yes, they are magical. The same mental process works with a placebo. Moreover, think about this, recently, I heard a CEO of a major company say, “With regard to all medications, the benefit to the patients is on the order of 10% better than a placebo.” This is a major breakthrough in arguing for the power within each exercise physiologist to render his or her best thinking in favor of their desired results. That is, if exercise physiologists would only stop limiting their true potential by either negative thinking or indifference, they will learn that they can do what they want to because they have already done it. ASEP exists, and it has enabled actions and feelings that were not possible before 1997. Exercise physiologists needed their own professional organization, and now they have it. They needed their own code of ethics, accreditation, board certification, web presence, electronic journals, and much more, and now they have all them and, yes, more.

The way to enlist “change” is to think differently [31]. It does not matter if you have an undergraduate degree or a doctorate degree, making a difference is a powerful medicine. Think about someone you really like, but isn’t doing all that well with his own guidance. Offer him “hope” and opportunity of something better and see what expression comes across his face. Then, read him the following quote by Theodore Roosevelt, “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.” Note the simplicity in Roosevelt’s words. Why not link yourself to them, one by one? “Do what you can….” In other words, if you can do one thing, then do it. If you can do more than that, then do it. Pick up what you have and figure out how to use it. Forget about perfection, imperfection is just fine when it leads to a better way.

"As professionals, exercise physiologists need to acknowledge the power in their words, and how the words crystallize their thoughts and give them reason for hope."

Lower your center of gravity, widen your base, and secure your state of mind for writing your own passport into the future. Just imagine how many people’s lives you will be helping even if they don’t know it right now. Hence, may your values give direction to your life, and may your words empower you and others who look to you. Think about the dream and the life of exercise physiologists if they embrace the ASEP vision with passion. Think of the smiles on the faces of students when they graduate knowing they will find a great job with huge possibilities, both in helping others and in securing the future of their families. The power lies in your words to change what is to what can be. It’s your power, may you use it to benefit everyone who believes that exercise is medicine and that exercise physiology is a healthcare profession. This is also why exercise physiologists need to speak with purpose and passion. It shows others that they have the backbone to act. All they need to do is focus on their vision and their commitment to the members of ASEP and do everything conceivable and more to ensure their work is impeccable and meaningful. Exercise physiologists have the power; all they have to do is use it.

In fact, one of the most significant characteristics of a leader is to share his or her thinking with colleagues. Sharing in the form of writing is to share one’s more precious feelings through words in the written form, as in an article. Why not help ASEP accomplish its goals by writing an article for PEPonline? Why not share your enthusiasm for the ASEP professional vision? Your article can make the difference between someone acting on the vision or merely reading it. And, as Joel Barker said, “Vision and action can change the world.” This is no small thing you are encouraged to do. Imagine for a moment, you can change the world of exercise physiology as it has been known for decades. All you need to do is make it happen. The truth is you have the right to succeed. So believe in yourself and you will be totally empowered to take action and create the career you want in exercise physiology.

Also, in this regards, Michael Korda said, “Desire, determination and a good sense of timing are the common denominators of success….” It helps to have a professional organization and members who believe they are exercise physiologists with the desire and determination to be terrific healthcare professionals. No matter how you may want to think about it, these are powerful words, and nothing succeeds better than members speaking and writing the right words. Once again, why not dare to write an article or speak at an ASEP national meeting. Dare to try ASEP, to take a risk, and to grow in exercise physiology. Dare to experience the power in the words, “To be successful, one must rise to the occasion.” Doing so breathes hope into enhancing self-worth and the desire for one’s rightful place in healthcare. And, as Anthony Robbins [32] says, "What we believe to be true, what we believe is possible, becomes what's true, becomes what's possible."

"A leader is best when people barely know he exists. Not so good when people obey and acclaim him. Worse when they despise him. But of a good leader who talks little when his work is done his aim fulfilled they will say: 'We did it ourselves.'”– Lao-Tse

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18. Nieman, D.C. (1998). The Exercise-Health Connection. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

21. Boone, T. (2007). Integrating Spirituality. The Power Within.org/ [Online]. http://www.thepowerwithin.org/ [Online]. http://thepowerwithin.org/?page_id=14

22. Boone, T. (1992). Coronary artery disease predictions from epidemiological research: Some critical reflections. The MAHPER Journal. 12:20-24.

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24. Boone, T. (2006). Exercise – Exercise: Sounds Familiar. Boonethink.com/ [Online]. http://boonethink.com/?p=60

25. American Society of Exercise Physiologists. (2007). What is Exercise Physiology. [Online]. http://www.asep.org/