Physical Activity Prescription

Course overview

The literature cites physical inactivity as the biggest public health problem of the 21st century. Overwhelming evidence shows that regular physical activity demonstrates protective and anti-inflammatory effects for the mind and body. Beyond the obvious physical benefits it provides, physical activity is known to be a cornerstone in the primary prevention of at least 35 chronic conditions (Booth et al., 2012), such as musculoskeletal disorders such as back pain and osteoarthritis, heart disease, type 2 diabetes and other metabolic diseases, pulmonary conditions, neurological and neurodegenerative disease, some types of cancer, and mental health conditions such as depression, stress, and anxiety. Exercise is medicine, and yet, the data shows that though therapists are capable and qualified, they are not necessarily comfortable or well equipped to counsel their patients on the American guidelines for physical activity. This course will prepare therapists to counsel, motivate, and help their patients and clients toward meeting the recommended American Guidelines for Physical Activity. All ages and conditions across the lifespan, from health populations to chronic conditions, will be covered in order to prepare the therapist to meet the 21st century needs of an increasingly inactive and chronically ill global population.