BooneThink

CAN sports medicine ever be exercise physiology? I think the answer is obvious. But, it might just be too obvious! This is a question dependent on the definitions of sports medicine and exercise physiology.

Those who have taken the time to reflect on this topic aren’t convinced that it is all that obvious. And, yet they are quick to point out that in order for both to be one, both would have to change.

For now, sports medicine is all about sports medicine and nothing actually to do with exercise physiology (except to use it as it does with physical therapy, nursing, athletic training, and on and on). What is sports medicine? After all, isn’t it just called sports medicine?

One would think so. What is obvious, however, is this: The ASEP definition of exercise physiology is NOT and CANNOT be the definition of sports medicine. So, clearly, from the ASEP perspective, sports medicine cannot be exercise physiology.

Exercise physiology deals with the health, fitness, rehabilitation, and athletics from the exercise physiologist’s practice perspective. Sports medicine is more a generic coming-together of diverse professionals, mostly those of the medicine type (in terms of application).

For ASEP exercise physiologists, accreditation is also important and, in terms of its future, than research without any other interests, but not just any accreditation. Exercise physiologists should graduate from an accredited exercise physiology program of study.

The age of yesterday’s thinking is just that! A GREAT deal of what is believed about this view is published in the Professionalization of Exercise Physiologyonline.

So, for exercise physiologists who somehow want or believe it is important that a synthesis between the two diverse fields of study is either imperative or mandated for exercise physiology to exist don’t get it. Often, the efforts to consolidate are about minimizing the voice or position of one side or the other.

Physical therapists do not rely on nurses for their future in healthcare. Dietitians do not rely on occupational therapists or medical doctors to define their destiny. What in the world are exercise physiologists doing, giving away their heritage to sports medicine?

By reasons not dissimilar to athletic training, who have their own professional organization, exercise physiologists ought to pay exclusive attention to certain issues and concerns, both of intellectual and professional, organized under the leadership of the ASEP organization. Needed, therefore, is a fresh view and acceptance of the ASEP leaders.

The researchers have served the profession very well. However, it is in the best interest of students and exercise physiology if they were to get interested in converting their research interests into lessons of growth as professionals, on all matters that cultivate the exercise physiologist as a healthcare practitioner.

Why? Synthesis is not desirable!

Most of us remember a coach, friend, or a parent who said “You can do it” or “Go for it, you can make it” — and you gave it a try. Support in the form of verbal comments is necessary for all of us and especially when in mental and/or physical combat.

Indeed, “combat” is a good word for the competition that we share in our challenges to develop exercise physiology as a healthcare profession. It is even ritualistic between leaders of different tribes or, if you will, organizations in this case to struggle at staying on top.

This kind of thinking shouldn’t come as a surprise to you or anyone who has taken the time to reflect on the subject reminds me of the story: “The Little Engine That Could.” It is part of the American way of thinking about things.

I often use the following quote in my psychophysiology course, “If I think I can, even if I don’t have necessarily the ability to do it, I may actually do it. And, if I think I can’t, given that I have the ability to do so, I’m likely not going to do it.” Positive thinking is important to our success as exercise physiologists.

There is therefore power in the statement, “Go for it.” It requires dedication, hard work, and positive thinking. With a positive attitude, however difficult the obstacles may be, each person becomes an excellent example for others to follow.

So, what does this have to do with the American Society of Exercise Physiologists? You may be a freshman in college or an exercise physiologist faculty member or a person who directs cardiac rehab or corporate wellness. The fact that you have the power of positive thinking you can shape and influence the ASEP organization.

Your optimism and can-do-spirit versus your silence can influence fellowship and mood in regards to ASEP. After all, those of and within the organization are working for you. Never is it more important than now that you witness on behalf of the ASEP infrastructure for the professionalism of exercise physiology.

Your belief in ASEP, regardless of the personal and professional obstacles and the blinding silence of groupthink, elevates ASEP and its work on behalf of all members and those yet to be become members. Your beliefs can help move us forward with a united sense of destiny.

In the words of Thomas Jefferson, “God helps them that help themselves.” Anything is possible with determination and perseverance. Think positive and join the ASEP organization, given that your thinking, dedication, and work are measures of you the person whose positive thinking confers power over the destiny of exercise physiologists.