I am looking forward to spring, with the trees blooming and the brown Bermuda grass going to green. I see more opportunities to play outdoors, and that means more golf for me. I am most excited about the upcoming ACSM Health & Fitness Summit & Exposition to be held in Austin, Texas from April 7 to 10. It should be a great meeting! Please see www.acsm.org/summit for more details, including discounts for students. I look forward to seeing you in Austin. Bring your dancing shoes!
We have three excellent feature articles in this issue of ACSM’s Health & Fitness Journal®. Most of us are aware that heart failure is a deadly and costly condition that is increasing in prevalence. Peter H. Brubaker, Ph.D., FACSM, and Cemal Ozemek, B.S., address this topic in their feature: Exercise Therapy for the Failing Heart: Harmful or Helpful? Their article describes the unique pathophysiology and acute exercise responses of heart failure patients as well as the important role of exercise training in the management of this disorder. This is an important up-to-date presentation for those in both the clinical and preventive setting.
Some clients would rather play games than grind away on a cycle ergometer or treadmill. Is that a good idea? Kris Berg, Ed.D., addresses this topic in his article: Sports and Games: Fitness, Function, and Fun. Many sports and games that appear to meet ACSM’s intensity guidelines for aerobic fitness, may enhance other functional capacities such as performance of the activities of daily living and balance. Besides, playing games may provide enjoyment that contributes to increased adherence to regular physical activity. Discover ways to incorporate sports and games into your exercise programs and prescriptions—a fun way to get fit.
Finally, Kristina A. Harris, B.A.; Alison M. Hill, Ph.D.; and Penny M. Kris-Etherton, Ph.D., R.D., discuss an important nutritional topic in their feature: Health Benefits of Marine-Derived Omega-3 Fatty Acids. This article describes the health benefits of marine-derived omega-3 fatty acids, with particular focus on cardiovascular disease, and discussion of recommended intakes and dietary sources. Given the current interest in this topic, this is a must read for students and practitioners alike.
Our associate editors have provided their usual excellent columns that address a wide variety of topics in a brief, but focused manner. Additionally, we have a special guest writer for our Innovative Initiatives column.
Enjoy!
Ed
Edward T. Howley, Ph.D., FACSM
Editor-in-Chief