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Deciding to go back to school is a big decision, so it makes sense to get all the facts about your online program before you begin. Especially in a hands-on major like exercise science, understanding just what health and fitness topics you’ll be studying is important. At Concordia University, St, Paul, we want to make sure you feel prepared when you begin our Bachelor of Arts in Exercise Science program. We spoke with Professor Katie Fischer to give you an inside look at what you can expect from our online exercise science program.

How many hours per week do students typically spend studying?

We tell students they will complete approximately 20 hours of coursework each week within the program. This includes weekly readings, discussion board responses, assignments, quizzes, etc., and is dependent on the coursework for the week. We try to maintain a consistent workload throughout the course so students know what to expect each week.

The time spent studying is variable depending on the course and on the student’s understanding of a given topic. Students typically need a longer time to study exercise physiology and biomechanics since they are more advanced concepts within the program.

How much reading is involved?

It depends on the course. We generally have anywhere from two to four textbook chapters to be read each week. We also use supplementary resources, which could include websites, current research articles, etc., to add to the conversation taking place in the textbook, which also adds a new perspective for students outside of the textbook.

How is this information delivered online versus in the classroom?

We use YouTube videos and other education videos (videos on demand, among others) to deliver the content. We are also able to engage students quite effectively in online courses due to their required participation in discussion boards each week.

In a face-to-face class, it is easier to avoid participating in class at times since the instructor may not be aware of each student’s participation level. Within the online courses, it is apparent when students do not participate. We need this participation from each student to help them engage with the content and to demonstrate a minimum level of competency with the content. The face-to-face versus online classes have different delivery modes, but both can be effective if designed appropriately.

What group components are there?

We utilize small groups within our Webex videoconferencing sessions. This allows students to interact with their peers regarding case studies and other course topics. In addition, we also periodically utilize group discussion boards to allow students to interact more closely with their group members about some of the course concepts. We typically avoid group assignments due to the time zone differences for students, but our goal is to get students interacting with each other as much as possible for networking purposes. It is also a great way to enhance the learning environment.

Exercise science seems hands-on/physical. How do you get that experience behind a computer?

For the KHS475 Applied Exercise Prescription course, we typically advise students to earn a personal training certification from a nationally accredited organization. This ensures they have some hands-on/physical skills since they have earned the certification from an outside organization. In addition, we use the internship experience to help students bridge theory to practice to get the hands-on/physical experience that is required for work within the field.

As to the specific coursework, we utilize case studies, videos, and other delivery methods to ensure students get a high-quality educational experience, and then they use the aforementioned strategies to ensure they have the necessary hands-on/physical competencies to be a successful professional within the field.

What are the prerequisites?

We do not have any prerequisites for the specific courses, although we have strategically developed our course sequence to have the concepts build on each other as a student moves through the program. Ideally, a student would have some background in the exercise science field, which they can use to apply the concepts in greater detail; however, we do not require any specific coursework prior to starting the program.

Are transfer credits accepted? How many are typically brought in?

Transfer credits are accepted. Each student’s academic background is different so it depends on the previous coursework they have taken. If a student has taken a comparable course at a different institution and it meets our learning objectives and competencies within a given course, we provide them with the ability to transfer that course into the program.

What can students do to be as successful as possible in the program?

There are several tips I would provide to any online student:

• Develop a schedule that you can maintain every week. Try to set aside a specific time each day that you can dedicate to studying. Along these lines, it is helpful to break up the work into several days to let the information sink in rather than try to complete all of the coursework at the end of a learning week.
• Ask questions. Most of our instructors are professionals in the field so they understand the practical application of these concepts. Use them to help you understand the topics and their application in the field. As students see the relevance of the topics for their desired career, they are able to more fully engage with the concepts since they understand their practical application.
• Network. Interact with your peers and network with them. Leverage each other’s previous experiences in the field to learn from each other and also to gain a broader view of the possible careers within the field. In addition, network with instructors, many of whom are professionals in the field. Finally, network with others in your geographic region. If you are interested in physical therapy, set up a job shadowing experience at a local physical therapy clinic to network and to gain insight into the field.

Earn Your Exercise Science Degree Online

Prepare for a role in coaching, fitness, personal training, rehabilitation, and more with the online bachelor’s in exercise science program from Concordia University, St. Paul. Our program explores exercise, kinesiology concepts in human movement, and management. Designed for busy adult students, the program’s convenient online format allows you to fit your studies into your busy schedule.

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Aspiring coaches, athletic or personal trainers, physical education teachers, or recreation directors should consider earning a bachelor’s or master’s in exercise science. This degree prepares students for a broad range of occupations that promote health and physical fitness. Those who hold a degree in exercise science can expect to work in gyms, rehabilitation centers, physical therapy facilities, and sports and athletic complexes. Students who are thinking of majoring in exercise science should remember that even though a postsecondary degree is not always required for health and fitness-related occupations, having a bachelor’s degree undoubtedly helps graduates land better, higher-paying jobs.

Exercise science programs focus on coursework in kinesiology (the scientific study of human movement), nutrition, biological sciences, and physiology. Through these classes, students learn to create fitness programs and activity plans for children and adults. When compared to other undergraduate majors, exercise science is arguably the most well-rounded choice when it comes to offering an understanding of the human body.

People with exercise science degrees are qualified for many other positions. Obtaining this degree prepares students for many entry-level and mid-level jobs across the fitness, health, and wellness industries, including directorial and managerial positions. To name a few:

• Exercise physiologist in a cardiac rehabilitation facility
• Clinical exercise specialist
• Athletic coach
• Wellness coach
• Community wellness director

It is widely known that the keys to a consistently positive outlook are regular exercise and maintenance of physical fitness. Careers in exercise science promote a healthy lifestyle; many people in this field find their jobs to be extremely satisfying. Given the current obesity epidemic in the United States, there is a need for individuals trained in helping people lead healthier lifestyles. Whether help is given via exercise plans, rehabilitation programs, or sports programs, this is a rewarding career path that many enjoy.

Another benefit of this program is that it is structured to function as a “stepping stone” degree. This means that in addition to helping students get jobs right after graduation, it can also serve students who know they will pursue graduate study. Graduate work after earning a bachelor’s degree in exercise science might include the study of aging, biomechanics, chiropractics, human growth, sports psychology, and other subjects. Those who want to become chiropractors, physical therapists, or occupational therapists may consider starting with this degree, then taking advanced graduate coursework to achieve their career goals.

At Concordia University, St. Paul, an online bachelor’s or master’s in exercise science is a convenient program for those who want to work in exercise science or associated fields.

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A valuable way for college graduates to bolster their career is to join professional organizations in their field of study. These organizations share new developments for best practices and offer networking opportunities that foster career advancement. Most industries have professional organizations that graduates can join — and the field of exercise science is no exception.

Recent graduates and current students seeking exercise science organizations should consider the associations presented here. After all, membership in professional exercise science organizations can help recent graduates increase their enthusiasm for this field and deepen their knowledge of theory and best practices.

1. American Society of Biomechanics

This society has hundreds of members nationwide. It was formed in the late 1970s and now includes researchers, clinicians, scientists, and students. The society focuses on easing the exchange and dissemination of ideas among professionals involved in exercise science, biological science, health science, ergonomics, engineering, and applied science. Student memberships costs about $20 per year, while regular or professional dues are closer to $80 per year.

2. American College of Sports Medicine

This is one of the world’s largest sports medicine and exercise science organizations, as it has more than 50,000 members. It primarily focuses on the advancement and integration of scientific research, providing educational and practical applications of exercise science and sports medicine. Annual membership consists of four tiers — students pay $10 their first year, health fitness professionals pay $99, professionals in training pay $155, and professional members pay $240.

3. National Athletic Trainers’ Association

Recent graduates seeking exercise science organizations should consider the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA). This association focuses on topics that matter to certified athletic trainers and professionals in adjacent fields. It was formed in 1950 and now has more than 44,000 members worldwide. NATA’s mission is to enhance the quality of health care given to patients by athletic trainers and to advance the profession in general. Although dues vary by state and certification, students should expect to pay from $70 to $164 annually, while professionals pay $150 to $309 per year.

4. American Physical Therapy Association

For exercise science students and graduates who want to become physical therapists, the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) may be a sound choice. The organization consists of more than 90,000 physical therapists, physical therapy assistants, and students seeking to advance physical therapy practice. Through education and research, members strive to promote physical therapy and raise awareness of physical therapy’s role in the broader national health care framework. The cost of membership in this organization begins at around $80 per year for students.

Once exercise science students and professionals join these associations, they can review job openings, networking events, and information about upcoming conferences and seminars that may enhance their education and career. These exercise science organizations also support people who are interested in furthering their careers through graduate study. Although most memberships require dues or annual fees, the career benefits can far outweigh the financial commitment.

If you are interested in entering this field, consider Concordia University, St. Paul’s online Bachelor of Arts in Exercise Science. This program consists of flexible coursework that empowers you to succeed in coaching, health and wellness education, and rehabilitation sciences. If you’re interested in taking your exercise science career further, you can pursue CSP’s Master of Science in Exercise Science.

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A No-sweat Guide To Four Common Sports Injuries

In professional and recreational sports, injuries come with the territory. From ankle sprains to torn ACLs, even the most common in juries can put an athlete on the bench or sideline for months. With proper care and the expertise of a physical therapist, an injured player can safely get back in the game. Here are four of the most common sports injuries and an exercise science approach to symptoms and recovery.

Watch Your Step: Ankle Sprain

Stretching or tearing of the ligaments within the ankle

An ankle sprain typically happens when a foot rolls under the ankle, and can range from mild, moderate, to severe depending on whether the ligaments are overstretched or torn.

Occurs commonly in: basketball, soccer

Fast-paced running, cutting, and jumping puts extreme stress on the lower limbs, making ankle sprains especially common in basketball.

Recovery:

Most sprains don’t require surgery, and treatment involves crutches, walking boots, or cats. Whatever the severity, complete rehabilitation is required, starting with R.I.C.E. – rest, ice, compression, and elevation – and followed by ankle strengthening exercises. Recovery can range from 2 to 12 weeks.

65% of NBA and WNBA injuries occur in the lower extremity, with lateral ankle sprains as the most common diagnosis.¹

Keep Your Head in the Game: Concussion

Stretching or tearing of nerve tissue in the brain

A concussion can occur when the head is suddenly struck or violently shaken, causing the brain to bump against the inside of the skull.

Occurs commonly in: football, soccer

High-contact tackling in football means players are susceptible to concussions, whether by contact with another player or with the playing surface.

Recovery:

Although athletes who suffer from a blow to the head may play through concussions and leave the injury undiagnosed, the best recovery is cognitive and physical rest. Additional trauma after a concussion can lead to chronic trauma encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease.

Amid controversy over the frequency of concussions, the NFL reported that the number of concussions in regular season games from 2014 to 2015 increased by 58%.²

Your Knee’s Needs: ACL Tear

Tear in the one of four main ligaments of the knee

A collision, sudden deceleration, or landing maneuver can tear the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and damage the rotational stability of the knee.

Occurs commonly in: soccer, football, basketball

Cutting and planting in soccer involve rapidly changing direction or deceleration, placing stress on the knee and can cause a ligament to snap.

Recovery:

When a torn ACL requires surgery, a tendon graft replaces the torn ligament and serves as scaffolding where the new ligament can grow. Rigorous physical therapy should follow to help the player regain a full range of movement and strengthen the quadriceps and hamstrings. Recovery can take 6 to 12 months.

Female athletes are 3x more likely to sustain a knee ligament injury in soccer and basketball than their male counterparts, due to hormonal and anatomical differences, some research suggests.³

Stay Armed: Ulnar Collateral Ligament Tear

A tear to the UCL of the arm

Prolonged stress from repetitive overhead throwing motions can weaken the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) and cause it to tear.

Occurs commonly in: baseball

A more common injury among pitchers, UCL tears often require “Tommy John surgery, named after to L.A. Dodgers pitcher who was the first to undergo UCL reconstruction surgery in 1974.

Recovery:

When a UCL tear requires surgery, physical therapy can help strengthen the arm, starting from the handgrip all the way up to the shoulder blade and upper back muscles. Full recovery can take 12 to 18 months.

From 1999-2011, the average number of MLB pitchers who underwent Tommy John surgery each season hovered below 16, but in recent years, that number has increased to 25-30.4

Sports injuries will happen, but the secret to getting players back in the game safely and speedily lies in the expertise of a physical therapist or exercise scientist. Learn how you can get players back on the field through an online exercise science degree.

Sources

1. “Injury Risk in Professional Basketball Players,” 2006, The American Journal of Sports Medicine.
2. “NFL to Study Why Diagnosed Concussions Rose Significantly in ’15,” 2016, ESPN.
3. “A Meta-Analysis of the Incidence of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tears as a Function of Gender, Sport, and Knee Injury-Reduction Regimen,” 2007, Arthroscopy: The Journal of Arthroscopic & Related Surgery.
4. “What We’ve Missed About Tommy John Surgery,” 2015, ESPN.

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There are three main aspects to weight loss: nutrition, sleep and exercise. By paying attention to all three, you’re more likely to see results.

53% of Americans would like to lose weight.

Nutrition

The typical American diet exceeds recommended calories from solid fats and added sugars, refined grains, sodium and saturated fats.

90% of Americans eat more sodium than is recommended.

Reducing sodium intake would save up to $20 billion a year in nationwide medical costs.

Experts recommend lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs and nuts, while limiting trans fats, sodium and added sugars.

Drinking water before and during meals can also help with weight loss, as well as maintaining a proper diet.

Diets that you can try for weight loss:

• KETO: Low in carbs, moderate in protein and high in fat. Premise: the human body was designed to run more efficiently burning fat instead of sugar.
• PALEO: High in protein, vegetables and seeds. Anything processed, such as pasta, cereal or candy, is out. Eat like the cavemen did.
• SOUTH BEACH: High in protein and healthy fats. Low in some types of carbs, though you don’t have to completely cut them out of your diet.
• VEGAN: Plant-based foods and beverages only, eliminates all animal-based products, including eggs, meat and dairy products.
• DUKAN: Low fat and low carb. Designed around a permanent lifestyle change that helps you reach your “true weight” and keep it there.

Exercise

Regular exercise can help you lose weight. Exercise has been shown to reduce stress, increase productivity and reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, obesity and more.

Inactive adults lose between 3-8% of their muscle mass per decade.

Resistance training helps increase the strength, tone and amount of muscle you have.

Sleep

Adults (ages 26-64) should get seven to nine hours of sleep per night. Insufficient sleep impacts the hormones ghrelin and leptin, which influence hunger and energy balance.

More than 1/3 of U.S. adults aren’t getting enough sleep every night.

When we don’t get enough sleep, we increase the risk for high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke. By sleeping well, your brain has the chance to recharge, rest and get ready for optimal performance the next day.

A proper diet with regular exercise and enough sleep can improve metabolism, which will help you burn more calories.

Nutrition, physical activity, and sleeping patterns are all topics you would explore in an online Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science. Learn more about the program and discover ways to make a career out of promoting health. 

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If you enjoy an active lifestyle and want to dedicate your career to promoting health and wellness, you might be attracted to degree programs in exercise science or kinesiology. The good news is that there are plenty of attractive roles for graduates in both fields. Which one should you choose?

It can be challenging to identify the difference between kinesiology and exercise science. After all, both share a focus on physical activity. However, you should know the differences between the two fields before deciding on a program.

Differences in Definitions

It may be helpful to begin by examining the definition of kinesiology and how it differs from exercise science. According to the American Kinesiology Association, kinesiology studies how physical activity impacts health, society, and quality of life. Kinesiology is a broad field and encompasses several areas of study, including:

• Exercise science
• Sports management
• Athletic training
• Sports medicine
• Socio-cultural analyses of sports
• Sport and exercise physiology
• Fitness leadership
• Physical education
• Pre-professional training for physical therapy, occupational therapy, medicine, and other health fields

Note how exercise science appears on the list of kinesiology subfields. By definition, exercise science is a specialty within the study of kinesiology–and therein lies the difference between the two. While kinesiology studies physical activity’s relationship with health, society, and quality of life, exercise science focuses on exercise and movement. It takes a closer look at how someone’s body changes through exercise and the resulting performance and health implications.

Differences in Career Opportunities

Kinesiology Careers

Potential careers for kinesiology graduates typically include a wide range of roles across education, therapy, and sports. Examples include developing adapted physical education programs at schools or in the community, getting the post-graduate education needed to become a physical or occupational therapist, or becoming an athletic or personal trainer. There are dozens of potential career possibilities for someone with a degree in kinesiology.

Exercise Science Careers

Exercise science is a more defined subject, so graduates tend to follow suit. Typical careers after obtaining an exercise science degree include wellness coach, clinical exercise specialist, exercise physiologist, personal trainer, and athletic coach. Several additional opportunities are possible across fitness, health, wellness, and sports.

It’s important to note that a strong exercise science program can incorporate some of the same career opportunities that a kinesiology program offers despite the difference between the two. Not all courses should focus specifically, as strange as it may sound initially, on exercise. A quality exercise science curriculum should incorporate foundational courses like functional anatomy and biomechanics, which are crucial to both kinesiology and exercise science.

Exercise Science Degrees from CSP Global

If you’d like to help people with their health and wellness, don’t overlook kinesiology and exercise science, two of the most obvious degree program choices you have. Understand that your real focus should be on the quality of the program. For instance, by earning an exercise science degree online, you won’t have a problem pursuing a future in fields more commonly associated with kinesiology. CSP Global’s program is conveniently offered 100% online and can prepare you for positions in coaching, fitness and wellness centers, health and wellness education, personal training, and rehabilitation sciences.

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This blog post was written by guest contributor, Maggie Michalczyk, RDN.

It’s no surprise that athletes need proper nourishment to fuel up and feel good for optimal performance, sustainable activity, and injury prevention.  That’s why it’s important for active people to focus on getting key nutrients from foods to help fuel their lifestyle.

A well-balanced diet should target the best vitamins for athletes and their necessary daily values. However, it’s important to be proactive about incorporating foods that contain them in the diet.

Certain vitamins (and minerals) are especially important for energy metabolism, the formation of red blood cells, and combating oxidative stress. In most cases these vitamins are very easy to obtain through common foods most people eat daily like bananas, chicken, and sweet potatoes.

Vegan and vegetarian athletes need to be especially proactive and aware of their vitamin status as some of these crucial nutrients for energy production and more are found in meat, poultry, and dairy.

Whether you’re going for a trail run or clocking miles on your bike, feel your best by fueling up with foods that supply the body with optimal nutrition that is important for active individuals.

The Best Vitamins for Athletes

Vitamin B12

B12 is a crucial vitamin for energy metabolism. Every cell in the body depends on vitamin B12, as it plays a part in the synthesis of fatty acids and energy production, making it a crucial vitamin for athletic performance. A deficiency can result in weakness, fatigue, and even numbness in the extremities.

Since this vitamin is primarily found in animal products, vegan and vegetarian athletes are at risk for becoming deficient. For strict vegans and vegetarians, it’s important to incorporate breads, cereals, and other grains that have been fortified with B12 or take a daily supplement.

Food sources of vitamin B12: fish, meat, poultry, eggs, milk

Vitamin A

Well known for its role in vision health, vitamin A is also a potent antioxidant that helps to fight free radicals caused by oxidative stress and has been shown to play a role in bone health. Excess amounts from supplements can have toxic effects, so check with a health care provider before taking.

Food sources of vitamin A: sweet potato, spinach, pumpkin, carrots, broccoli

Vitamin D

Known as the “sunshine vitamin” because it’s produced in your skin when you absorb sunlight, vitamin D regulates the absorption of calcium and phosphorus — two minerals crucial for healthy bones. Vitamin D deficiency can put athletes at risk for stress fractures, muscle pain, and weakness.

Food sources of vitamin D: cheese, egg yolks, canned salmon, mushrooms

Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6 is responsible for protein and glucose metabolism, and the manufacture of hemoglobin in the body. B6, along with the other B vitamins, is responsible for the way the body unlocks the energy in food to use it for energy and cellular health, which is especially important for people who are very active.

Just like with the other B vitamins, B6 is a water-soluble vitamin, meaning it’s excreted through urine and not stored in the body. Foods that contain B vitamins must be consumed daily.

Food sources of B6: chickpeas, banana, avocado, sweet potato, eggs, tuna, salmon

Iron

Iron is a mineral, but it’s definitely worth talking about in the context of nutrition for athletes because it’s responsible for oxygen transportation throughout the body, especially to working muscles.

Not enough iron in the body may cause fatigue and impact physical performance on a variety of different levels. Iron is lost through sweat, skin, urine, the GI tract, and menstruation. Female athletes are at a higher risk for iron deficiency and may require supplementation.

Foods that contain iron: red meat, lentils, beans, tofu, spinach, pumpkin seeds

Why Do Athletes Need Vitamins?

From energy metabolism and production to bone health, the best vitamins for athletes span functions that even the most casual athletes can’t ignore. By avoiding deficiencies and fueling the body, an appropriate diet can provide the necessary minerals and vitamins for athletic performance.

Enhance your understanding of nutrition and athletic performance with a master’s in exercise science online. Become a leader in the industry with this 100% online program from Concordia University, St. Paul. When you graduate, you can pursue entry or advancement as a sports nutritionist, occupational therapist, athletic trainer, coach, exercise physiologist, and more.

You can also take a look at our sports nutrition playbook for trainers guide to learn more about boosting athletic performance.

Maggie Michalczyk is a registered dietician in Chicago, Illinois. You can follow her on her blog and Instagram @onceuponapumpkin