EXPLORING EXERCISE IS MEDICINE: PROGRAM CONCEPTS & PRACTICAL APPLICATION
Abstract
Universities often face the challenge of understanding the initiative, finding time and resources while implementing Exercise Is Medicine programs like mascot challenges, student events, and course activities. But what if these programs could be more than just extracurriculars? What if they could also contribute to student learning and future success in real, impactful ways? By incorporating Exercise is Medicine (EIM) into the university’s curriculum and student programs, students have an opportunity to gain practical, hands-on experience that connects classroom learning to the real world. Not only does this provide valuable opportunities for students, but also helps universities share the message of wellness, meet university outcomes and course objectives, and provide students with tools necessary to strengthen healthy physical activity habits while in college and beyond. This symposium will explore concepts such as: • What exactly is Exercise is Medicine? • EIM may fit well into school mission to facilitate the development of key knowledge, skills and attitudes for students seeking careers in health, exercise and wellness-related fields. • EIM may provide a vehicle to further develop structure by providing students an opportunity to work collaboratively across campus, in the community and around the region to meet a growing need for health science and wellness professionals. • EIM may help expand in meeting outcomes and go beyond hands-on learning with profession-based learning and exploration for their individual career path. • EIM may help support students in every facet of the college journey and help provide mentorship along with cutting-edge education experiences that connect students to research and career opportunities worldwide. At this symposium, universities that have successfully achieved Gold-level EIM status will share their successes as well as the pitfalls they’ve encountered along the way. This candid sharing of experiences will provide invaluable insights into creating sustainable health and wellness programs that empower students and prepare them for future careers in a real-world, practical way. By fostering an environment where students actively contribute to and participate in EIM programs, universities can ensure that their programs continue to thrive and that students are prepared for success in the health, exercise and wellness industry. This symposium will explore practical applications in and outside of the classroom, collaboration across campus resources, students as active participants, creating awareness and passion, and sustainability in a workshop, panel-based presentation with participant activities, group work and planning opportunities. A Q&A session will be included in the presentation.
Recommended Citation
Pulley, Tina and Tapps, Tyler
(2025)
"EXPLORING EXERCISE IS MEDICINE: PROGRAM CONCEPTS & PRACTICAL APPLICATION,"
International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings: Vol. 11:
Iss.
12, Article 112.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.wku.edu/ijesab/vol11/iss12/112