EXS 230 - Exercise Leadership

1. Know components of health-related physical fitness.
2. Demonstrate how to train the components of physical fitness.
3. Demonstrate the knowledge and skills required to provide safe and effective exercise leadership and education.
4. Demonstrate the knowledge and skills required to develop and implement exercise programming.
5. Understand fundamental legal, professional, and safety practices required for exercise leadership.
6. Demonstrate effective communication through listening, speaking, and leading a group.
7. Identify the best solution to a problem or issue.

I. Provide instructions and initial documents to the client in order to proceed to the interview.

A. Knowledge of:

1. components and preparation for the initial client consultation.

2. necessary paperwork to be completed by client prior to initial client interview.

B. Skill in:

1. effective communication.

2. utilizing multimedia resources and/or in person resources.

II. Interview client in order to gather and provide pertinent information to proceed to the fitness testing and program design.

A. Knowledge of:

1. the components and limitations of a health/medical history, pre-participation screening tools, informed consent, instructor-client contract, and organizational policies and procedures.

2. the use of medical clearance for exercise testing and program participation.

3. orientation procedures, including equipment utilization and facility layout.

B. Skill in: obtaining a health/medical history, medical clearance and informed consent.

III. Review & analyze client data (i.e., classify risk) to formulate a plan of action and/or conduct physical assessments.

A. Knowledge of:

1. risk factors and associated risk thresholds.

2. signs and symptoms suggestive of chronic cardiovascular, metabolic, and/or pulmonary disease.

3. medical clearance, exercise testing and supervision recommendations based on risk stratification.

2. Skill in:

1. determining risk

2. determining appropriate physical assessment

IV. Evaluate behavioral readiness

A. Knowledge of:

1. behavioral strategies to enhance exercise and health behavior change (e.g., reinforcement, S.M.A.R.T. goal setting, social support).

2. applications of health behavior change models

2. Skill in:  setting effective client-oriented behavioral goals (i.e., S.M.A.R.T. goals).

V. Assess physical fitness

A. Knowledge of:

1. the basic structures of bone, skeletal muscle, and connective tissue.

2. the basic anatomy of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.

3. the plane of muscle action.

4. differences between aerobic and anaerobic energy systems and the effects of acute and chronic exercise on each.

5. the normal acute responses to cardiovascular exercise and resistance training

6. the normal chronic physiological adaptations associated with cardiovascular exercise and resistance training.

7. the physiologic responses related to warm-up and cool down.

8. the physiological basis of acute muscle fatigue and delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) versus musculoskeletal injury/overtraining.

9. the physiological basis for improvements in muscular strength and endurance.

10. blood pressure responses associated with acute, chronic exercise and postural changes.

11. muscle actions

12. identify major muscles

13. the identification of major bones i

14. relative and absolute contraindications to exercise 

15. pre-activity fitness testing including assessments of flexibility, cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, muscular endurance, and body composition.

16. interpretation of fitness test results (i.e., favorable vs. unfavorable results).

B. Skill in:

1. locating/palpating pulse landmarks, accurately measuring heart rate, and obtaining rating of perceived exertion (RPE).

2. locating anatomical sites for circumference (girth) measurements and associated risk.

3. locating anatomical sites for skinfold measurement to estimate body fat percentage.

4. selecting/administering safe muscular strength & muscular endurance assessments and determining normal acute responses to resistance training.

5. selecting/administering safe flexibility assessments for various muscle groups and determining normal acute responses to flexibility training.

6. recognizing postural abnormalities that may affect exercise performance and body alignment.

7. delivering test and assessment results in a positive manner 

VI. Develop a comprehensive (i.e., physical fitness, goals, behavior) reassessment plan/timeline.

A. Knowledge of:

1. development of fitness plans based on client interview, risk stratification, and physical fitness assessments.

2. effective and applicable health behavior modification strategies to meet client goals.

3. the purpose and appropriate timeline for re-assessing(i.e., 6 weeks, 12 weeks) each component of physical fitness (cardiovascular, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility, and body composition measures).

Exercise Programming and Implementation

I. Review assessment results, medical history and goals to determine appropriate training programs.

A. Knowledge of:

1. the risks and benefits associated with guidelines for exercise training and programming for healthy adults, seniors, children and adolescents, and pregnant women.

2. the benefits and risks associated with exercise training and guidelines for exercise programming for individuals medically cleared to exercise with chronic disease 

3. cardiovascular risk factors or conditions that may require consultations with medical personnel prior to initiating physical activity 

4. components of physical fitness

5. program development for specific client needs 

6. special precautions and modifications of exercise programming for participation in various environmental conditions

7. the importance and ability to record exercise sessions and perform periodic reevaluations to assess changes in fitness status.

II. Select exercise modalities to achieve desired adaptations based on goals, medical history and assessment results.

A. Knowledge of:

1. selecting appropriate exercises and training modalities

2. the principles of specificity and program progression.

3. the advantages, disadvantages, and applications of interval, continuous, and circuit training programs for cardiovascular fitness improvements.

4. activities of daily living (ADLs) and their role in the overall health and fitness of the individual.

5. differences between physical activity recommendations and training principles for general health benefits, weight management, fitness improvements, and athletic performance enhancement.

6. the six motor skill related physical fitness components; agility, balance, coordination, reaction time, speed and power.

7. the benefits, risks, and contraindications for a wide variety of resistance training exercises specific to individual muscle groups 

8. the benefits, risks, and contraindications for a wide variety of range of motion exercises

9. the benefits, risks, and contraindications for a wide variety of cardiovascular training exercises and applications based on client experience, skill level, current fitness level and goals 

III. Determine initial frequency, intensity, time (duration) and type (i.e., the FITT principle of exercise prescription) of exercise based on goals, medical history and assessment results.

A. Knowledge of:

1. FITT principle

2. appropriate exercise modifications based on individual abilities, physical limitations, and other special considerations 

3. implementation of the components of an exercise program including warm-up, training stimulus, cool down, and stretching.

4. applied biomechanics and exercises associated with movements of the major muscle groups

5. the application of various methods for establishing and monitoring levels of exercise intensity, including heart rate, RPE, pace

6. the determination of target/training heart rates 

7. periodization for cardiovascular, resistance training, and conditioning program design and progression of exercises when necessary to avoid training plateaus or injury.

8. repetitions, sets, load, and rest periods necessary for desired outcome goals.

9. using repetition maximum test results procedure to determine resistance training loads.

B: Skill in:

1. Organizing a group exercise session including:
   1. Demonstrate warm-up
   2. Demonstrate appropriate exercise selection and set up
   3. Demonstrate appropriate music selection
   4. Demonstrate appropriate cool-down.

IV. Review proposed program with client; demonstrate and instruct the client to perform exercises safely and effectively.

A. Knowledge of:

1. and ability to describe the unique adaptations to exercise training with regard to strength, functional capacity, and motor skills.

2. and the ability to safely demonstrate exercises designed to enhance cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength and endurance, balance, and range of motion.

3. appropriate teaching techniques and the ability to demonstrate exercises for improving range of motion of all major joints.

4. and the ability to safely demonstrate a wide range of resistance-training modalities

5. and ability to safely demonstrate a wide variety of functional training exercises involving non-traditional equipment such as stability balls, balance boards, resistance bands, medicine balls, and foam rollers.

6. the physiological effects of the Valsalva Maneuver and the associated risks.

7. the biomechanical principles for the performance of common physical activities 

8. the concept of detraining or reversibility of conditioning and effects on fitness and functional performance.

9. signs and symptoms of overreaching/overtraining and recommendations to prevent and/or reverse the detrimental effects.

10. improper exercise form and/or techniques to modify/prevent musculoskeletal injury.

11. appropriate exercise attire 

12. communication techniques for effective teaching and client retention with awareness of visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning styles.

13. proper spotting positions and techniques for injury prevention and exercise assistance.

V. Monitor client technique and response to exercise, modifying as necessary.

A. Knowledge of:

1. normal and abnormal responses to exercise and criteria for termination of exercise 

2. proper and improper form and technique while using cardiovascular conditioning equipment

3. proper and improper form and technique while performing resistance exercises 

4. proper and improper form and technique for flexibility exercises 

B. Skill in:

1. interpreting client understanding/comprehension and body language during exercise.

2. effective communication, including active listening, cuing, and providing constructive feedback during and after exercise.

VI. Modify frequency, intensity, time and duration to improve or maintain the client’s fitness level.

A. Knowledge of:

1. specific exercises and program modifications for healthy adults, seniors, children and adolescents, and pregnant women.

2. specific exercises and program modifications for individuals with chronic disease who are medically cleared to exercise

3. principles of progressive overload, specificity, and program progression to avoid training plateaus and promote continued improvement and goal achievement.

4. appropriate methods to teach progression of exercises for all major muscle groups

5. modifications to periodized conditioning programs to increase or maintain muscular strength and/or endurance, hypertrophy, power, cardiovascular endurance, balance, and range of motion/flexibility.

VII. Seek client feedback to ensure satisfaction and enjoyment of the program.

A. Knowledge of:

1. effective techniques for program evaluation and client satisfaction (e.g., survey, written follow up, verbal feedback).

2. client goals and appropriate review and modification.

Leadership & Education Implementation

I. Create a positive exercise experience in order to optimize participant adherence by applying effective communication techniques, motivation techniques and behavioral strategies.

A. Knowledge of:

1. effective and timely uses of a wide variety of communication modes.

2. verbal and nonverbal behaviors that communicate positive reinforcement and encouragement.

3. and skill in engaging active listening techniques.

4. different types of learners and how to apply teaching and training techniques to optimize a client’s training session.

5. different types of feedback and the ability to use feedback to optimize a client’s training session.

6. and the application of health behavior change models and effective strategies that support and facilitate exercise adherence.

7. barriers to exercise adherence and compliance 

8. triggers to relapse and relapse prevention strategies.

9. specific techniques to facilitate motivation 

10. extrinsic and intrinsic reinforcement strategies (e.g., t –shirt, improved self esteem).

11 strategies to increase non-structured physical activity levels (e.g., stair walking, parking farther away, bike to work).

12. health coaching principles and lifestyle management techniques related to behavior change.

13. specific, age-appropriate leadership techniques and educational methods to increase client engagement.

II. Educate clients using scientifically sound health and fitness information and resources to enhance client’s knowledge base, program enjoyment, adherence and overall awareness of health and fitness related information.

A. Knowledge of:

1. the influence of lifestyle factors, including nutrition and physical activity habits, on lipid and lipoprotein profiles.

2. the value of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins as fuels for exercise and physical activity.

3. the following terms: body composition, body mass index, lean body mass, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and body fat distribution.

4. the relationship between body composition and health.

5. the effectiveness of diet, exercise and behavior modification as a method for modifying body composition.

6. the importance of maintaining hydration before, during and after exercise.

7. the USDA Dietary Guidelines

8. The Female Athlete Triad.

9. the myths and consequences associated with inappropriate weight loss methods 

10. the number of kilocalories in one gram of carbohydrate, fat, protein and alcohol.

11. guidelines for caloric intake for individuals desiring to lose or gain weight.

12. accessing and dissemination of scientifically-based, relevant health, exercise and wellness-related resources and information.

13. community-based exercise programs that provide social support and structured activities

14. stress management and relaxation techniques (e.g., progressive relaxation, guided imagery, massage therapy).

15. dimensions of wellness.

Legal, Professional, Business and Marketing

I. Obtain medical clearance for clients based on guidelines, prior to starting an exercise program.

A. Knowledge of:

1. risk stratification and medical clearance procedures

2. the application of the risk stratification process.

3. medical clearance requirements prior to exercise testing and program participation.

4. the appropriate level of supervision and monitoring recommended for individuals with known disease based on disease-specific risk stratification guidelines and current health status.

II. Collaborate with various healthcare professionals and organizations in order to provide clients with a network of providers that minimizes liability and maximizes program effectiveness.

A. Knowledge of:

1. reputable professional resources and referral sources to ensure client safety and program effectiveness.

2. the scope of practice 

3. effective and professional communication with allied health and fitness professionals.

4. Identifying individuals requiring referral to a physician or allied health services such as physical therapy, dietary counseling, stress management, weight management, and psychological and social services.

III. Develop a comprehensive risk management program (including emergency action plan and injury prevention program) to enhance the standard of care and reflect a client-focused mission.

A. Knowledge of:

1. and skill in obtaining basic life support, automated external defibrillator (AED), and cardiopulmonary resuscitation certification.

2. appropriate emergency procedures in a health and fitness setting.

3. basic first-aid procedures for exercise-related injuries, such as bleeding, strains/sprains, fractures, and exercise intolerance.

4. precautions taken in an exercise setting to ensure participant safety

5. contraindicated exercises/postures and potential risks associated with certain exercises 

7. the responsibilities, limitations, and the legal implications for the certified fitness professional of carrying out emergency procedures.

8.  hypoglycemia/hyperglycemia, hypothermia/hyperthermia).

9 the need for and use of safety policies and procedures and legal necessity thereof.

10. the need for and components of an emergency action plan.

11. effective communication skills and the ability to inform staff and clients of emergency policies and procedures for the facility or program.

B. Skill in:  assisting, spotting, and monitoring a client safely and effectively during exercise testing and/or training.

IV. Participate in approved continuing education programs on a regular basis to maximize effectiveness, increase professionalism and enhance knowledge and skills in the field of health and fitness.

A. Knowledge of:

1. the role of continuing education, professional resources, and requirements for certification & recertification.

2. the continually evolving field of health and fitness and the need for certified fitness professionals to keep abreast of new research and applications in the field of exercise science.

V. Adhere to Code of Ethics by practicing in a professional manner within the Scope of practice of a certified fitness professional

A. Knowledge of:

1. the components of both the code of ethics and scope of practice

2. appropriate work attire and professional behavior.

B. Skill in:  conducting all professional activities within the scope of practice of a certified fitness professional

VIII. Obtain appropriate liability insurance and follow industry-accepted professional, ethical and business standards in order to optimize safety and to reduce liability.

A. Knowledge of:

1. professional liability and common types of negligence seen in training environments.

2. legal issues pertinent to health care delivery by licensed and unlicensed healthcare professionals providing rehabilitative services and exercise testing and legal risk-management techniques.

3. equipment maintenance such to decrease risk of injury and liability (i.e., maintenance plan, service schedule, safety considerations for each piece).

IX. Engage in healthy lifestyle practices in order to be a positive role model for all clients.

A. Knowledge of:

1. appropriate professional behavior 

2. environmental influences that may negatively impact client satisfaction/compliance

3. the need to avoid distractions during a training session

X. Respect copyrights to protect original and creative work, media, etc. by legally securing copyright material and other intellectual property based on national and international copyright laws.

A. Knowledge of:

1. and application of national and international copyright laws.

2 documentation of non-original work.

B. Skill in:  developing original educational material.

XI. Safeguard client confidentiality and privacy rights unless formally waived or in emergency situations.

A. Knowledge of:

1. practices/systems for maintaining client confidentiality with electronic and hard copy files.

2. the importance of client privacy (i.e., client personal safety, legal liability, client credit protection, client medical disclosure).

3. the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) laws depending on setting and state that the personal training business resides in.

B. Skill in:  obtaining and maintaining rapid access to client health history emergency contact information.

Laboratory Skills: 20-30%

Physical Activity: 10-15%

Case Studies: 0-10%
Mandatory Course Components:
Lab practicals to demonstrate skills

 
Equivalent Courses:
None