ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal

“Think outside the box” and “change the paradigm” are two often used phrases meant to convey the idea of developing new strategies to help solve persistent and sometimes difficult problems. For those of us engaged in the profession of helping others make long-term lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise or proper nutrition, we too may require fresh strategies to help ensure client and patient success well into the future.

Depending on the population and the nature of the intervention, conservative estimates suggest that 50% or more of the people who adopt a new, healthier behavior eventually tumble into the ranks of the noncompliant within 12 months. Although there are many factors that influence compliance, the simple fact of the matter is that much room for improvement exists. As a result, as fitness and nutritional professionals we are constantly on the lookout for tools that help retain client interest, while at the same time incorporating diversion and keeping the approach simple and fun.

This issue of the Journal offers a feature article aimed at making exercise not only fun and simple, but effective and challenging as well. Brett Klika, B.S., CSCS, and Chris Jordan, M.S., CSCS, address the topic of “High-intensity Circuit Training using Bodyweight: Maximum Results with Minimal Investment.” Two other top-drawer features that I am pleased to introduce are “Stress Relief: The Role of Exercise in Stress Management” by Erica M. Jackson, Ph.D., FACSM, and “Sports Nutrition Education: Key for Success for Post-Bariatric Athletes,” by Allison Mulvaney, M.S.; Allison Bader, M.S.; Nancie Herbold, Ed.D., R.D.; and Nancy Clark, M.S., R.D., CSSD, FACSM.  As usual, this issue also provides yet another outstanding array of columns from our regular contributors.

Before closing I wish to formally thank Michael Bracko, Ed.D., FACSM, who is stepping off the Journal’s Editorial Board after nearly eight years of service as the associate editor for Research Bites. Simply outstanding service by a leader in the field of fitness. 

Finally, as we head into a spring and summer filled with good weather and fitness, let’s keep our eyes on the long-range target. Specifically, fostering effective strategies that improve compliance among our clients… for not only the next six weeks but for six months and, hopefully, the next six years.

Sincerely,

Steven J. Keteyian, PhD
Editor-in-Chief

Henry Ford Health System
Detroit
sketeyi1@hfhs.org

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An Official Journal of the
American College of Sports Medicine

ACSM’s Continuing Education Self-Tests Now Online!

ACSM has officially transitioned all continuing education credit (CEC) self-tests online! Check out the new ACSM online learning platform at www.onlinelearning-acsm.org. Now you can take the online test and print your CEC certificate immediately after earning a passing grade.

Earning CECs has never been faster or easier. Simply follow these instructions:

• Go to www.onlinelearning-acsm.org
• Select the self-test(s) you would like to take from the options available on the site and pay the processing fee.
• Use the access codes that can be found printed in each issue of ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal. A subscription to the journal is required.
• Read the designated feature articles carefully.
• Take the online test.
• Print your certificate(s) for your files.

Stay current with the American College of Sports Medicine Position Stands and joint position statements, and Team Physican Consensus Statements.

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