As Charles Darwin noted, “It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change. Can exercise physiology meet the challenge? I think it can. One way is that demonstrates the exercise physiologist’s desire to take charge of their profession is through entrepreneurship. As beginning practitioners, they are choosing a path that represents “greener grass.” Starting my own health care business, says board certified exercise physiologist of “Ahrens Exercise Physiology” has made all the difference. That’s why the ASEP accreditation guidelines must prepare exercise physiologists accordingly. In fact, as exercise physiology moves from a paradigm of gym fitness and/or just cardiac rehab to one of total health care promotion and wellness and of disease and illness prevention, exercise physiologists will encounter challenges. In particular, this new thinking will require new knowledge and especially business skills to be effective. With a few courses this is 100% within reach. In their own health care business setting, exercise physiologists meet clients on their turf instead of the traditional instructor, specialist, or trainer perspective that dominates exercise science and sports medicine. The ASEP perspective is that health care involves the biological, physical, sociological, cultural, psychological, and spiritual dimensions of a client’s life. It also involves teaching the client about self-responsibility and awareness of cardiovascular fitness, nutritional competence, stress management, and spirituality. Change is possible, however threatening. With the right attitude, the popularity, growth, and integration of entrepreneurship opportunities has (and will continue to) provide exercise physiologists with a valuable inroad to personal and professional success.
Greener Grass!
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