History

ACSM was founded in 1954 by a small group of physical educators and physicians who recognized that health problems were associated with certain lifestyle choices, especially smoking and lack of exercise. Since then, ACSM members from all professional backgrounds have applied their knowledge, training and dedication in sports medicine and exercise science to promote healthier lifestyles for people around the globe.

In 1984, the ACSM National Center relocated to Indianapolis, IN, and our strong heritage, combined with our visionary approach to the future, means ACSM continues to grow and prosper both nationally and internationally.

Today, we continue to make great strides toward the goal of making ACSM the global authority in exercise science and sports medicine.

For more detail about ACSM history, view "The American College of Sports Medicine: 50 Years of Progress and Service, 1954-2004"  or read Out of Many, One: A History of the American College of Sports Medicine by Jack W. Berryman, Ph.D., FACSM. Click here for more information about the book.