What Is Exercise Physiology?

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To better understand exercise physiology, you need to understand the terms "exercise" and "physiology" separately.

• Exercise – these are activities that require physical effort; they are performed to improve your fitness and health. 
• Physiology – this is a science that outlines the workings of your body. It covers the chemical and biological state of your body and the mechanical and physical processes it performs. 

Exercise physiology is thus a group of exercise activities that are recommended to individuals by exercise physiologists based on their physiology (or the state of their bodies). This means that an exercise physiologist has to carry out different tests to find out how your unique body works, which then allows him or her to recommend tailored exercises.

What Are These Tests?

Exercise physiologists need to examine the state of your cardiovascular function and metabolism and then check how they are affected by various exercises. You might be expected to run on a treadmill at different speeds, during which the exercise physiologist will be examining changes to your cardiovascular function.

Exercise physiologists also conduct blood tests, X-rays, MRIs and ultrasounds. This helps them confirm which exercises won't cause any harm and identify your limits.

Your Test Results

The exercise physiologist will review your results and discuss them with you. Expect to be told things like various exercises that you should not attempt because they might cause you harm or specific exercises that you should attempt regularly to prevent you from getting certain diseases or getting injured.

You should know that every person differs in terms of their physiology. For example, some people have genetic conditions while others don't, some people are affected by various climatic conditions while others aren't and some people may be affected by certain foods while others aren't. This indicates that exercise physiologists may instruct you to avoid consuming various foods.

Which Ailments Can Exercise Physiology Treat?

The most common diseases or ailments that are treated or managed using exercise physiology include sports injuries, obesity, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, etc. However, you need to visit an exercise physiologist for testing. These tests will determine your exercise routine.

Exercise physiology quickens recovery from sports injuries. If you are an athlete, avoid using unprescribed drugs; visit an exercise physiologist instead.

Prevention of Injuries and Ailments

Exercise physiology should not only be for the ailing but for the healthy as well. Get in touch with an exercise physiologist to learn what types of exercises will help you avoid getting injured or suffering from various diseases. 

23 December 2020