The Role of Fitness Professionals in Public Health: A Review of the Literature. Issue 3 (3rd July 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: De Lyon, Alexander T. C.; Neville, Ross D.; Armour, Kathleen M.
• Is Part Of: Quest. Volume 69:Issue 3(2017)
• Page Start: 313
• Page End: 330
• Publication Date: 2017-07-03
• Subjects: Fitness professionals -- health -- neoliberal theory -- physical activity -- professional education and training -- sport and exercise pedagogy; Kinesiology -- Periodicals; Physical education and training -- Periodicals; 613.7
• DOI: 10.1080/00336297.2016.1224193
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0033-6297

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Kinesiology researchers have long had an interest in physical activity, fitness, and health issues and in the professional education and work practices of teachers and coaches. The professional development needs and practices of "fitness professionals, " however, have not been a major concern for researchers in the field. The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the evidence on fitness professionals, their role in physical activity for health agendas, and the professional education and training that is available to support them. The analysis indicates that there is a mismatch between the expectations placed upon fitness professionals and the training and professional education that is available to them. It is argued that pedagogy researchers in kinesiology could usefully turn their attentions to this occupational group.