Researching new and more effective workout techniques, enhancing performance through nutrition, helping athletes make the most out of each of their movements and allowing humans to understand the inner workings of the body and mind during times of peak performance… All of these owe their existence to the field of exercise science. It is a field with many practices which are all aimed at better understanding the functions of the human body, particularly where sport, exercise and nutrition are concerned. But what exactly does the term ‘exercise science’ mean.
Defining exercise science
Exercise science courses generally encompass four fields of understanding that allow for the study of human movements during exercise and physical activity. These four fields are:
- Anatomy,
- Physiology,
- Biomechanics, and
- Nutrition.
Exercise science is, however, a broad term than even casts its umbrella over disciplines in psychology concerned with motivating athletes. In addition, exercise science concerns the effects of exercise on the human brain.
The anatomy: Understanding the body
The study of anatomy puts the pieces of the puzzle – that make up the human body – together. By familiarising oneself with anatomy, they obtain a keen understanding of the structure of joints and bones, the placement of muscles, as well as the way all of the above function together when the human body is in motion. Such an understanding ensures that fitness professionals avoid and identify injuries, while giving them the toolset to handle them appropriately when need be. A sound understanding of the structure of the body enables fitness professionals to develop exercise techniques that make the most out of energy usage in terms of performance.
Physiology: Systems in the body
As a fitness instructor, it is essential to be familiar with the internal systems in the body such as cardiovascular functions, the nervous system, the respiratory system and so forth. Such knowledge enables you to properly coach on techniques for aerobic performance while being able to identify and handle possible internal injuries. An understanding of the systems and functions in the body, as well as their relation to bodily performance, can enable instructors to help clients target and reach realistic fitness goals.
Biomechanics: Movement and energy
The weight of the human body has a far more severe impact on the performance of the human body than is commonly recognised. The study of biomechanics entails understanding how different forces interact with the human body while it is in motion. It also gives instructors a sound understanding of how muscles expand and contract when in motion. While the body’s use of energy can be more intricately understood with a knowledge of the Sagittal, Frontal and Transverse planes of motion.
Nutrition: Fuel for performance
Understanding what your clients need in terms of nutrition when reaching for their fitness targets will enable you to advise them on diets that can enhance their performance. An understanding in nutrition also lets you play a part in correcting dietary misconceptions held by your clients, while making nutritional value labels on food products simple to decipher.
Contact Trifocus Fitness Academy today
If you are interested in obtaining fitness science certification, feel free to contact Trifocus Fitness Academy today, or visit our website for details.
