PEPonline
Professionalization
of Exercise Physiologyonline

An international electronic
journal for exercise physiologists
ISSN 1099-5862

Vol 2 No 1 January 1999

 

Reengineering the Exercise Physiology Profession
Tommy Boone, PhD, MPH, FASEP
Professor and Chair
Department of Exercise Physiology
Director of Exercise Physiology Laboratories
The College of St. Scholastica
1200 Kenwood Office
Duluth, MN 55811


Introduction

It was just two weeks ago I was in a graduate management class where I work, and we were intoducing ourselves to each other. The man to my right said, "You have a master's degree, and you teach physical education." Surprised by his comment, without hesitation, I said, "No, I'm an exercise physiologist. I have a PhD degree from Florida State University. His look was one of confusion, and time did not permit further exchange.

Later that night at home, it occurred to me that regardless of years of being an exercise physiologist, I am still a physical educator in the eyes of the man next to me. Please understand, as I said in an earlier paper, I have absolutely nothing but respect for the physical educator. However, I stopped being a physical educator when I got the doctorate degree and was hired as an exercise physiologist at Wake Forest University.

Although I have changed and have grown as a college teacher and as an exercise physiologist, there are not as many recognized, across-the-board changes in the public sector. Even the college environment with which I work and the medical community in the city in which I live have relatively little understanding of the exercise physiology profession.

So, it is again that I consider it my professional duty to state that we must not be content with our accomplishments as exercise physiologists. Rather, we must search out every possibility and every opportunity to develop the profession and to help others understand the exercise physiology professional. In this regard, I don't know who wrote the following line, but it certainly seems to speak to exercise physiologists.

"If you continue to think the way you always thought you will continue to get what you always got. Is it enough?"
Is it enough that after years as an exercise physiologist that no one understands what I am or what I do except my students? Why is it that other professions and the public sector do not get it? Is it because they just don't understand the field? Is it their fault or is it ours?

I think it is our fault! I can't hold it against the individual who thought I was a physical educator. I can't even blame him for not understanding what I do after I tell him that I am an exercise physiologist. The bottom line is that neither he nor the faculty of most colleges and universities have been prepared for what we do and what we are, professionally speaking. Hence, it is no wonder that we will continue to be mis-understood.

This is why we must never stop in strengthening, building, and improving the American Society of Exercise Physiologists (ASEP). In my opinion, the Society is our hope and dream. It is our chance of unparalleled opportunity to reengineer the current state of exercise physiology. It offers a fundamental means to rethinking the challenges before us so that we can achieve dramatic improvements in what we do and who we are.

The Society is our power and change agent, which reminds me of something I wrote in the October, 1997 issue of the ASEPNewsletter.

"Where does the power come from? Why is an idea so enabling, catching, and moving? The answer is rather simple, but in itself powerful. It is the hope of something better and different. Something that an idea or a vision creates. Hope and faith are powerful motivators in creating change and providing for opportunities. With hope, there is always a chance of making progress. The power is in the belief that change will come with the idea. As a result, people are energized and compelled to commit voluntarily to achieving success."
But, as Paul Allaire, CEO of Xerox, notes, "You can't redesign processes unless you know what you're trying to do." Do the members of the Society know what they are trying to do? That is, "What do we want to become?" I think so.

What Do We Want to Become?
The ASEP Vision is not an ambiguous statement. It highlights what we want to become, for example:

1. To be recognized as the leading professional organization of American scholars and practitioners in the study and application of exercise physiology to fitness, health promotion, rehabilitation, and sports training.

2. To unify all exercise physiologists in the United States and worldwide to promote and support the study, practice, teaching, research, and development of the exercise physiology profession.

3. To empower its members to serve the public good by making an academically sound difference in the application of exercise physiology concepts and insights.

The point is this. As the Vision indicates, "we want to become recognized as unified, academically prepared exercise physiologists educated to work in today's complex and highly demanding health care professions and/or the public sector."  To this end, it is our responsibility to communicate "what we are" to others. Their failure in understanding us lies with us. Aldous Huxley put it,
"Man approaches the unattainable truth through a succession of errors."
While we have a made a lot of errors in our short history, the biggest single error is the fact that we did not create our own professional organization years ago! However, for those of us who understand the "cause and effect process" -- we also know what is required to create the future.

Rethinking Exercise Physiology
The main beneficiaries of the rethinking and redesigning exercise physiology to achieve dramatic improvements are the exercise physiology professionals, because the primary goal is organized around the exercise physiologist's needs or wants. Reengineering involves also the reexamination of all aspects of the exercise physiologists' work and, where appropriate, an analysis of the various barriers that have evolved over time.

The Society has brought about fresh, creative approaches to establishing longer lasting, more permanent circumstances by which to relate to the world at large. This is as it should be. Exercise physiologists, regardless of their work -- from business, to academics, to research, to sports or in different clinical fields -- cannot rest on their laurels. They should get involved in the ASEP-spirit to move the profession to the next level. In short, that level is the realization of a new future for all exercise physiologists.

First, though, let me make a clear distinction between Vision and the Goals and Objectives. The Vision statement answers the question, "What do we want to become?" The ASEP Goals and Objectives are guides to achieving the Vision, given that the mere existence of the Society opens professional opportunities and gives rise to ideas and ways to achieve greatness. Thus, all of us, clinicians, academicians, researchers, directors, fitness specialists/instructors alike, must work together to ensure our independence, credibility, and professional growth.

An Academically Driven Profession
To succeed, however, we must be academically driven, and our profession must therefore be academically driven. We can no longer be viewed as a technical field characterized by individuals skilled just in the application of "fitness" or "athletics" or "exercise training" or "ECG" or "cardiac rehabilitation." We are more than each of these however important and complex each may be. We are more than technical, and now is the time to identify, accept, and solidify our definition as a professional (and as a profession).

The ASEP definition of an exercise physiologist,

"...is a university (college) educated professional who has at minimum a bachelor's degree (or emphasis) in exercise physiology (science)."
This particular definition is a beginning. It isn't the desire definition because most exercise science programs do not offer a "true" bachelor's degree in exercise physiology. Instead, most programs offer a degree in kinesiology, human performance, or one of some 60 other titles with an emphasis in exercise science (not exercise physiology).

Hence, just as we can't be defined by our laboratory procedures and stress tests protocols (versus being a profession with scientific application to the human body), we can accept the notion by some that academic programs are increasingly acknowledged as out-of-step with the professional character of the field. These programs will have to be updated if we are to define who we are with professional specificity and integrity.

The lack of identity is troubling. Also, the fact that we are being driven more by clinical issues than overall academics is an issue that must be evaluated. If we can't come to an understanding of "who is an exercise physiologist?" -- no wonder no one else knows the answer. There is a difference between being a technician and a professional, and in being an exercise science student and an exercise physiology major. In my judgment, our profession will reach an understanding of these issues and make the transition from being a clinically driven field to being an academically driven profession with the help of each ASEP member.

Changing Direction!
What is apparent, and what is a fact is that we cannot continue in the same direction as we have done for decades. It isn't enough! We cannot continue requiring students take in addition to the traditional science courses (chemistry, physics, biology), such courses as exercise physiology, biomechanics, anatomy, cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, advanced exercise physiology, sports nutrition, electrocardiography, stress testing, biochemistry of exercise, exercise and immunology, psychophysiology of exercise and health, exercise prescription, kinesiology and so forth and then only expect them to work at the local gym or fitness center.

I believe it was the Italian astronomer and physicist, Galileo Galiei (1564-1642), who said,

"You cannot teach a man anything. You can only help him discover it within himself."
Here, it is clear to me that ASEP is the key to restructuring the academics of exercise physiology programs. Also, it may well be the key to help the PhD academicians discover, as gatekeepers to establishing an integrated, internally consistent, and externally legitimate profession, the need for a shared vision of the future and a clearly articulated vision and strategy.

The need to improve exercise physiology now is real. It cannot be denied any longer. Today's professors are faced with the challenge (and responsibility) for analyzing, synthesizing, and communicating the changes that are necessary in exercise physiology. Hence, whether we like it or not, the current "exercise science" versus "exercise physiology" system for developing students will change because of the current financial, professional, and political conditions that are creating a serious re-evaluation of the field. The interesting take on this issue is that either we will adjust to our professional concerns from within or it will be done by others. If we are smart, we will take up the challenge, and that is exactly the purpose of the Society.

Rather than accepting what we have become and how professional (or the lack of it), social, and political events have essentially redefined what we do, members of the Society insist on defining their future by the Goals and Objectives of ASEP Charter. In our plan, communities of exercise physiologists from the bachelor's level to the doctorate level are harnessing the unified, shared power and opportunity to:

1. Promote and encourage the exchange of ideas and information regarding all phases of exercise physiology.

2. Promote the advancement of exercise physiology teaching and research.

3. Stress the importance of undergraduate and graduate programs in meeting diverse interests and career opportunities, regardless of age, gender, race or disability.

4. Promote the growth and application of the highest quality research and professional application of exercise physiology in health promotion, disease prevention, rehabilitation, and sports fitness and training.

5. Promote the development and exchange of scientific information between ASEP and other professional organizations with an interest in exercise physiology.

6. Set the agenda, determine the direction, and make the decisions about the future of the exercise physiology profession.

7. Be a dynamic and action-oriented clearinghouse for questions regarding the exercise physiology profession.

8. Increase visibility and enhance the image of the exercise physiology profession.

9. Represent exercise physiologists whose professional work is mainly clinical, and to help ensure that federal agencies and legislators understand their work and needs of the clinical professional.

10. Participate in the development and implementation of public policies and procedures concerned with exercise physiology.

11. Make a commitment to quality and integrity in exercise physiology through adherence to the Society's Code of Ethics.

12. Promote positive public policy and professional, ethical behavior by providing ongoing peer review and quality assurance programs via the accreditation of the exercise physiology (science) academic programs.

13. Expand federal and private funding of exercise physiology research and training.

Exercise Physiology in the Future
Let us imagine for a few moments that the goals and objectives of the Society are achieved at some point in the near future. Exercise physiology in the next century will bear little resemblance to exercise physiology today.

Exercise physiology professors, particularly in the doctorate programs, will not be viewed just as "great thinkers who write books and publish research articles." The ivory tower will be gone! The professor's productivity and tenure will be checked by excellence in teaching. There will be greater and more profound emphasis placed on critical inquiry and student productivity. Equally important, the faculty will have made the connection between the need for reform in the exercise physiology curriculum, job satisfaction at graduation, and society's demands and expectations for health care professionals.

Instead of department administrators flaunting the achievements of the faculty, they will look to a convincing rationale that empowers the students of exercise physiology. The faculty will coordinate all efforts to increase the credibility, respect, and integrity of their students. The quality of the students' education will be greatly improved with increased emphasis on shared problem-solving between the professors and the students.

Changes to Come
Consider this brief scenario as an example of a few of the changes to come as exercise physiologists realize they are hired to teach first and do research second. Faculty will work with a passion to address the students' academic needs, issues, and concerns. They will make important changes in the curriculum (with emphasis on degree programs in exercise physiology vs. an emphasis in exercise science) as well as the delivery of the academic programs and hands-on experiences. The impact of these changes on the exercise physiology profession will be positive. Students will be inspired to learn and the journey to professionalism will be widespread.

Another very positive development is the information superhighway. It has transformed communication with each other and the technology will no doubt ensure exciting interactions among students and colleagues alike. This new means of connecting will embrace and serve the Society very well. Members will be able to reach out to each other as well as the scientific and public sectors. New ways of thinking, teaching, and doing research will help capture the meaning of the profession. It is up to us to use the computer and strategic web sites to our advantage.

It is also up to us to get the attention of exercise physiologists worldwide in order to grow and flourish. That's right. Our constituency consists of all exercise physiologists and, hence the Society exists to serve the exercise physiology community. This point is made clear in the ASEP Vision statement.

That is, the ASEP Vision states, in part, the importance of addressing the notion and opportunity to act as the umbrella organization for bringing exercise physiologists together as colleagues, collaborators, and professional associates. The result will be an unparalleled unified voice to influence and nurture the profession.

ASEP's Invitation
The Society will become the place to meet together and to exchange ideas. Members will have similar interests. They will embrace each other and strengthen the profession, but what the Society needs TODAY are more involved members. The Society needs more members:

1. Speaking out on behalf of ASEP's Goals and Objectives.

2. Presenting at the ASEP national meetings.

3. Publishing in the Society newsletter and journals.

4. Persuading other exercise physiologists of the benefits of ASEP membership.

5. Willing to develop and implement ASEP committee programs.

6. With the expertise to document personal needs, membership priorities, and professional perceptions of all members.

In short, every ASEP member invites the reader to step up to the plate and get involved with the professionalization of exercise physiology. The invitation is open to all exercise physiologists regardless of academic rank and/or professional or published experience. In fact, it is more than disconcerting to realize that the publishers of several exercise physiology texts have not become ASEP members. To everyone who takes the time to think about this point, the question is WHY? Surely, they appreciate the importance of networking to support exercise physiology (unless the authors feel they are the profession)!

Students everywhere should speak out and ask their teachers why they have not joined the Society. It is up to the students to help the Society grow by sharing their needs and concerns; their commitment to sponsor another student will help the profession achieve increased understanding of "who we are" and "what we do." Membership is the answer, and effort is required to make the Society a membership of distinction.

The ASEP Board of Directors has determined that "Fellow" is possible without having to have the PhD degree. Even the member with the BS degree can gain the ASEP Fellow title, given that the member works on behalf of the Society. This is a break from a more traditional point of view that sets the stage for professional distinction and involvement at all academic levels. This is a concept of inclusiveness that has seldom been matched in professional organizations.

Furthermore, if anyone is really reading this piece and is willing to take it to heart, that person as an ASEP member is a valued professional who may want to take on the responsibility of many different aspects of the Society. Consider for example, there is the need for someone to:

1. Think through how the Society can increase networking opportunities.

2. Figure out the specifics of "greater participation by everyone, including the BS through the PhD."

3. Create new journals and future print copies of the same.

4. Improve on the ASEP website, journal formats, and influence, where appropriate, the agenda of the upcoming national meeting.

5. Respond to the gender, ethnic, and racial issues before all organizations.

6. Open doors for the minority groups and their specialized concerns.

7. Spread the "good word" about the Society to high schools and colleges throughout the United States.

8. Convey the students' perspective, issues, and concerns regarding jobs, satisfaction, respect, and growth.

I urge you to step forward and commit yourself to the community of exercise physiologists developing throughout the United States via the Society. Bear in mind that there are some 200 plus members in just one year. After the implementation of several important membership strategies, in a short time period, the membership will be much larger. In several years, the membership community will be a force to reckon with. I urge you to join us in creating and supporting the Society. We exist to empower you, and thus improve your relationship with other professionals.

Changing Reality
These are challenging times. The less we do, the more others will do. With your expertise, your willingness to work hard, and your ideas and recommendations, we will succeed! Why? Because it is in our best interests to work together to enhance the prestige and stature of exercise physiology. Together, we will create the profession and the opportunities desired by others. It is in our best interests collectively to do so.

Remember that organizations are only useful if they change your reality! Sports medicine can only deliver certain obvious promises, but people and those who belong to the Society delivers results. Society members recognize this point and are willing to work hard on behalf of every member.

The Society also recognizes the importance of national certification for exercise physiologists based on outcomes generated from a core curriculum of exercise physiology course work. The promise to move exercise physiology from a technically-based certification test to an academically-driven certification exam will be fully realized during the early months of 1999. Exercise physiologists throughout the United States will have the first opportunity in the history of the profession to be certified as exercise physiologists at the second ASEP national meeting in New Mexico, October, 1999.

Which is More Important?
Certified as a personal trainer? Exercise specialist? or whatever? -- versus the respect of recognized academic credibility! The answer is simple. The ability to transfer college knowledge and skills to the work place is a function of benefits derived from a program of academic study specific to exercise physiology.

The bottom line is simple. You need to access an approved or accredited academic program in exercise physiology, but such programs do not exists today. In a very short time period, however, the Society will have improved upon its analysis and decision of what constitutes an academic program of study that reflects the critical elements of accreditation. Hence, the Society is redefining the direction that American exercise physiologists will take during the 21st Century.

Summary
For those of you who have achieved a certain mastery in exercise physiology, the Society poses the following question: Okay, so now what? We would also like to suggest an answer: The American Society of Exercise Physiologists. We know that even highly successful professionals need and want change and, in the Society, we provide an environment in which change is legitimized and stimulated.

We will encourage you and help you, with the support of the membership, to renew your enthusiasm for professionalism, establish control over the direction of exercise physiology, and increase everyone's confidence that change is not only good but imperative for professionalization of the field.

We have within our grasp the most powerful force possible in creating change. That force is an achievable vision that can change our destiny. But, unless we take note of where we are now and where we are going (i.e., without a shared vision or dream), we will very likely continue to end up where we don't want to be. The question is simple,

"If the direction exercise physiologists are going is not where they wish to go, how can they change it?"
The answer lies within us and our ability to imagine what we want and how to get there. But, first, we must want the change in direction and, second, we must be willing to work for it, and never forget that...
If you can dream it...
If you believe in yourself...
If you persist when others quit...
If you are willing to make sacrifices...
If you have faith...
If you accept the ridicule of those who watch...
If you break through your fears...
If you have integrity...
If you try when others say it's impossible...
IT CAN BE DONE!!!

Copyright ©1999 American Society of Exercise Physiologists. All Rights Reserved.


 

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