ACSM Trends 2024

Wearable technology is the #1 trend and has been a mainstay in the top 3 trends since 2016. Wearable technology includes a variety of devices that a person can wear or attach to themselves and are commonly connected to a smartphone. This technology provides real-time information such as heart rate, step counts, active minutes and sleep time. Wearable technology allows exercise professionals to further individualize day-to-day physical activity for their clients, tracking patterns, performance and progress over time.

Blog

• February is Heart Health Month: How are you Monitoring Your or Your Clients' Hearts? 
• Fitness Trackers Can Be Fashionable and Functional by Paul Hibbing, Samuel LaMunion and Lindsay Toth  
• Sales of activity trackers booming, but more research is needed on their benefits by Carol Kennedy-Armbruster, Ph.D., FACSM

ACSM Journal Articles

• Comparative Analysis of ActiGraph Step Counting Methods in Adults: A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analysis | by Toth and colleagues, published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise_®
• Does Wrist-Worn Accelerometer Wear Compliance Wane over a Free-Living Assessment Period? An NHANES Analysis | by LaMunion and colleagues, published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise_®
• A Device Agnostic Approach to Predict Children's Activity from Consumer Wearable Accelerometer Data: A Proof-of-Concept Study | by Weaver and colleagues, published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise_®
• A Critical Review of the Methodology Commonly Used to Estimate Cardiorespiratory Fitness | by Magal and colleagues, published in ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal^®
• HbA1c Reduction in Diabetic Older Blacks and Hispanics: A Study on Mobile Physical Activity Tracking | by Wu and colleagues, published in the Translational Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine
• Prospective Validation of 2B-Cool: Integrating Wearables and Individualized Predictive Analytics to Reduce Heat Injuries| by Laxminarayan and colleagues, published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise_®
• Running-Related Injuries Captured Using Wearable Technology during a Cross-Country Season: A Preliminary Study | by DeJong and colleagues, published in the Translational Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine
• Feasibility and Acceptability of Wearable Sensor Placement for Measuring Screen Time of Children | by Willis and colleagues, published in the Translational Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine
• Detecting Sleep and Nonwear Data in the 24-h Wrist Accelerometer Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey | by Thapa-Chhetry and colleagues, published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise_®
• Time Trends in Physical Activity Using Wearable Devices: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Studies from 1995-2017 | by Conger and colleagues, published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise_®
• Systematic Review of Fitbit Charge 2 Validation Studies for Exercise Tracking | by Irwin and Gary, published in the Translational Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine
• Wearables as an Aid to Cardiovascular Diagnosis in a Young Runner | by Roberts and Levine, published in Current Sports Medicine Reports
• Patterns of Accelerometer-Measured Physical Activity and Health Outcomes in Adults: A Systematic Review | by Brady and colleagues, published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise_®
• Free-Living Validation and Harmonization of 10 Wearable Step Count Monitors | by Park and colleagues, published in the Translational Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine
• Player Tracking Technology and Data for injury Prevention in the National Football League | by Ghasem and colleagues, published in Current Sports Medicine Reports
• Fitness Watches and Nutrition Apps: Behavioral Benefits and Emerging Concerns | by Scheid and Lupien, published in ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal^®
• Wearable Monitors Facilitate Exercise in Adult and Pediatric Stem Cell Transplant | by Pottebaum and colleagues, published in Exercise and Sport Sciences Reviews *Includes Journal Club
• Potentials of Digitization in Sports Medicine: A Narrative Review | by Rigamonti and colleagues published in Current Sports Medicine Reports
• The History of Exercise Equipment: From Sticks and Stones to Apps and Phones published in ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal^®
• The Impact of Pairing a Wearable Movement Tracker with an Online Community Weight Loss Intervention by Wilson and colleagues, published in the Translational Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine
• Establishing a Global Standard for Wearable Devices in Sports and Fitness: Perspectives from NEACSM Members | by Ash and colleagues, published in Current Sports Medicine Reports
• Revisiting Heart Rate Target Zones Through the Lens of Wearable Technology by Jennifer Scheid, PhD and Emma O'Donnell, PhD published in ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal^®
• A Framework to Evaluate Devices That Assess Physical Behavior | by Keadle and colleagues, published in Exercise and Sport Sciences Reviews *Includes Visual Abstract
• Use of Wearables: Tracking and Retraining in Endurance Runners | by Moore and Willy, published in Current Sports Medicine Reports
  
  

CEC Opportunities

• Using Wearable Sensors and Big Data to Identify Digital Biomarkers in Sleep, Health, and Exercise Performance This course focuses on the use of wearable sensors and big data to better understand sleep, health, and exercise performance. Topics include the epidemiology of sleep as suggested by big data from commercial sleep trackers, digital biomarkers related to physical activity and health in clinical and population-based applications, research designed to develop and apply novel sensor-based measures of functional health in pharmaceutical trials, and findings from a study of 4,600 participants and more than 37,000 runs suggesting preferred running speeds are dictated by energetics. 1 CEC

• Heart Rate Monitoring Assessment Course This course will provide both fitness professionals and heart rate monitor enthusiasts a foundational knowledge of the physiology of heart rate and how to build an effective heart rate based training program. This course will primarily focus on utilizing five heart rate training zones through the exercise disciplines of cycling and running. This course was developed in partnership with POLAR. 6 CECs

Webinars

• Maximize Wearable Technology with Your Clients  *Sponsored by POLAR
• New PAI Technology Prescribes Optimal Levels of Physical Activity *Sponsored by MIOGlobal 
• Increase Motivation and Engagement with Wearable Technology *Sponsored by POLAR
• Using Wearables and Technology to Encourage Healthy Behaviors presented by Christine Pellegrini, Ph.D., as a part of ACSM's Brown Bag Series in Science 

Worksite health promotion is new to the trends list at #2. This seems to further support an increased interest in health and quality of life which impacts many areas, including workplace productivity. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the average American will spend approximately one-third of their life at the workplace when participating in a 40-hour work week. Employers have an opportunity to encourage health-promoting behaviors (e.g., physical activity and preventative screenings). These benefits often lower insurance costs, increase workplace productivity, and improve mental health. Some examples of worksite health promotion include access to fitness facilities, employee athletic leagues, and health education classes.

Blogs

• Economic Benefits of Workplace Wellness Programs and Changes since COVID-19 | Janet R. Wojcik, Ph.D., FACSM
• Pedaling toward Activity-Supportive Workplace Environments | Liza S. Rovniak, Ph.D., MPH *Member exclusive
• What Works for Worksite Health Promotion | Vanessa M. Kercher, Ph.D., SSC, M.Ed., ACSM-EP, BES

ACSM Journal Articles

• ACSM's Health and Fitness Journal^® Worksite Health Promotion Collection | 60+ articles on worksite health, written by Nico Pronk, Ph.D., FACSM, FAWHP and colleagues, including:
  • Workforce Well-Being: Current State, Opportunities and Priorities
  • Work, the Workplace and the Mental Health of Workers
  • Company-Level Assessments and Organizational Policy Recommendations for the Promotion of Physical Activity and Cardiorespiratory Fitness
  • Weight Bias and Discrimination in the Workplace: Addressing a Diversity and Inclusion Issue
  • What Works in Worksite Health Promotion?
• Changes in Desk-Based Workers' Sitting, Standing, and Stepping Time: Short- and Longer-Term Effects of Musculoskeletal Pain | by Dzakpasu and colleagues, published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise_®
• How Health and Fitness Professionals Can Further Advance the Nation's Health by Working Across the Ecological Model | by Brown and colleagues, published in ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal^®
• Physical Activity Solutions to Decrease Occupational Stress | by Aslakson and colleagues, published in ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal^®
• Associations of Physical and Social Workplace Characteristics with Movement Behaviors at Work | by Holmes and colleagues, published in the Translational Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine *Includes infographic
• Breaking Up Prolonged Sitting to improve Cardiometabolic Risk: Dose-Response Analysis of a Randomized Crossover Trial | by Duran and colleagues, published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise_®
  • If you're sitting all day, science shows how to undo the health risks. Take 'activity snacks" every 30 minutes. | NBC News and the TODAY Show (includes video)
  • Sitting all day can be deadly. 5-minute walks can offset harms | NPR (article + audio)
  • Sitting too much is bad for your health, but offsetting the impact is easy, study shows | CNN (includes video)
• Assessment of Fitness, Health, and Well-Being in the Occupational Setting: A Pragmatic Approach | by Fang and Pronk, published in ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal^®
• Effect of Weight Goals on Sitting and Moving during a Worksite Sedentary Time Reduction Intervention | by Leonard and colleagues, published in the Translational Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine
• Acute Effect of Height-Adjustable Workstations on Blood Glucose Levels in Women with Impaired Fasting Glucose Levels While Working: A Pilot Study | by Bonikowske and colleagues, published in the Translational Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine
• Effects of an "Active-Workstation" Cluster RCT on Daily Walking Physical Behaviors | by Arguello and colleagues, published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise_®
• Using a Health Promotion Program Planning Model to Promote Physical Activity and Exercise | by King and Hartson, published in ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal^®

CEC Opportunities

• Physical Activity Solutions to Decrease Occupational Stress Find out how physical activity can help employees destress, avoid burnout and stay healthy. 1 CEC
• 5 on 5: Five Worksite Wellness Pros As a result of rising health care costs, the quest for worker productivity, and stiff competition for employee talent, an increasing number of companies offer employee health promotion programs. Yet many organizations have struggled with engaging their workforce in programs designed to improve well-being. This course features five worksite health professionals from different corporate sectors who will share their tips and tools to increase the probability that "if you build the wellness program, employees will come!" 3 CECs
• Ergo-Energizer: How to Be Fit if You Must Sit Learn how to identify particular workstation design flaws which can contribute to poor mobility, muscle tension, fatigue and discomfort; how to apply basic workstation and work practice modifications in order to reduce muscle tension and discomfort and to enhance mobility, strength and work tolerance; perform basic assessments of posture, mobility and strength; design exercise routines for improving mobility and strength that can be performed at a workstation or desk, in an office, during a movement break or in a gym during a warm-up or cool-down sequence. 3 CECs

Books

• ACSM's Worksite Health Handbook, 2nd Edition

Increasing fitness program options for older adults moves up to #3. The 2021 Profile of Older Americans reports a 38% increase in Americans age 65 and older since 2010, with about 27% of this population living independently. The older adult population of Americans is projected to continue its growth through 2040. Aging increases the risk of chronic illness, cognitive impairment, and falls in this population. Regular aerobic and muscle-strengthening physical activity is an essential strategy for reducing the impact of disease, maintaining independence, and improving quality of life throughout the aging process.

Blogs

• Working with Older Adults? Don't Skimp on Strength Training | Garrett Kellar, Ed.D., ACSM-CEP, ACSM-EP, EIM3 *Member exclusive
• Muscle Strength Genotype Predicts Functional Capacity at Older Age | Elina Sillanpää, Ph.D. *Member exclusive  
• Capitalizing on Accelerometry to Measure Performance Fatigability in Older Adults | Nancy W. Glynn, Ph.D., and Yujia (Susanna) Qiao, Sc.M. *Member exclusive
• Cognitive Benefits of Physical Activity for Older Adults | Jean-Charles Lebeau, Ph.D., CMPC
• Computational Neuroscience Approaches to Exercise Behaviors in Older Adults | Timothy P. Morris, Ph.D., and Arthur F. Kramer, Ph.D. *Member exclusive
• High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) Enhances Neuroplasticity in Healthy Older Adults | Jason Neva, Ph.D., and Lara Boyd, P.T., Ph.D. *Member exclusive
• Physical Activity and Function in Older Age: It's Never too Late to Start! | Loretta DiPietro, PhD, MPH, FACSM
• How Exercise Promotes Brain Health in Aging | Jill Barnes, Ph.D., FACSM

ACSM Journal Articles

• The Principles of Exercise Prescription for Brain Health in Aging | by Heisz and Waddington, published in Exercise, Sport & Movement
• Exercise Prescription in Older Adults | by Tokumitsu and Barkley, published in Current Sports Medicine Reports
• The Seated Medicine Ball Throw Test for Older Adults | by Ronai and Gallo, published in ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal^® 
• Dose-Response Relationships between Objectively Measured Daily Steps and Mortality among Frail and Nonfrail Older Adults | by Watanabe and colleagues, published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Medicine_®
• Physical Activity and Risk of Frailty in U.S. Women 60 Yr and Older | by Fung and colleagues, published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Medicine_®
• A Physical Activity Intervention in Older African Americans: The PAACE Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial | by Newton and colleagues, published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Medicine_®
• Development of a Novel Accelerometry-Based Performance Fatigability Measure for Older Adults | by Qiao and colleagues, published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Medicine_®
• Framework to Classify Physical Activity Intervention Studies for Older Adults | by Baldwin and colleagues, published in the Translational Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine
• Effect of Exercise Training on Blood Pressure in Health Postmenopausal Females | by Debray and colleagues, published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Medicine_®
• Brain Structure and Function Predict Adherence to an Exercise intervention in Older Adults | by Morris and colleagues, published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Medicine_®
• A Guide to the Assessment of Function and Fitness in Older Adults| by Thompson, published in ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal^®
• Acute High-intensity Interval Exercise Modulates Corticospinal Excitability in Older Adults | by Neva and colleagues, published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Medicine_®
• Just What the Doctor Ordered: A Guide to Robust Assessment and Exercise Prescription in Older Adults | by Schlicht and colleagues, published in ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal^®
• Potential Implementation of Reactive Balance Training within Continuing Care Retirement Communities | by Aviles and colleagues, published in the Translational Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine
• The Interaction between Mobility Status and Exercise Specificity in Older Adults | by Brahms and colleagues, published in Exercise and Sport Sciences Reviews
• Aging in America  by Byra, published in ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal^®
• Keep On: Staying Active to Promote Well-Being During the Golden Years  by Bushman and Goddard, published in ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal^®
• Do It Right: The Short Physical Performance Battery (Assessment)  by Ronai and Gallo, published in ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal^®
• Effectiveness of a Fall Prevention Exercise Program on Falls Risk in Community-Dwelling Older Adults | by Thompson and colleagues, published in the Translational Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine

Resources

• ACSM's Exercise for Older Adults | Book
• Moving with Arthritis | Infographic 
• Being Active as We Get Older | Spanish Version | EIM's Rx For Health Series
• Being Active When Frail | Spanish Version | EIM's Rx For Health Series
• Strength, Power and the Baby Boomer by Kent Adams, Ph.D., FACSM, and Trish Sevene, Ph.D.

CEC Opportunities

• Physical Activity and Age-Related Cognitive Function | This course focuses on the latest research in the field of physical activity and aging, from the epidemiology of age-related cognitive decline to the biological mechanisms of action and emerging evidence on the impact of both aerobic and strength/high intensity interventions on cognitive decline. 1 CEC
• Cellular Mechanisms Underlying Exercise Response Heterogeneity during Aging | Skeletal muscle is remarkably adaptive, increasing mass and strength in response to resistance exercise training, but that response becomes blunted and more variable as we age. This course explores the role of muscle stem cells in muscle adaptation, as well as potential interventions to reduce exercise response variability in older individuals. 1 CEC
• The Role of the U.S. Physical Activity Guidelines Midcourse Report in Addressing Health Equity in Older Adults – How do we Move the Needle and Get Vulnerable Older Adults Moving? | This course discusses the science behind the strategies, settings, policies, systems, and environmental approaches for increasing physical activity among older adults as outlined in the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans Midcourse Report released in 2023. 1 CEC
• Expanding Your Reach: Effective Exercise Training for Older Adults | Explore why you should shift your approach when working with older adults by looking at current research, and then how to practice progressions that will boost functional movement capacity. Walk away from this course feeling empowered and energized to improve the lives of the seniors you work with! 1 CEC
• Eccentrics for Functional Aging: How to Use Eccentric Training to Gain Strength and Reduce Injury | This course examines the science of eccentric training and extends this science by focusing on practical recommendations for all abled-bodied and athletic populations. 1 CEC
• The Research, Relevance, and Reality of Brain Health: Science-Supported Strategies for Physical Activity in Older Adults | This course will describe realistic and meaningful strategies for promoting the adoption of lifestyle behaviors in older adults, ultimately aimed at maintaining and improve aspects of brain health across the lifespan. 1 CEC
• Older Adult Exercise: EIM | This module, from the Exercise is Medicine^® (EIM) Online Course, provides the essential framework for designing exercise programs for older adults and frail older adults to improve both health and function. 2 CECs
• The Coming of Age of Resistance Exercise as a Primary Form of Exercise for Health | Learn how the benefits of resistance training compare to those of aerobic exercise, especially in the aging population — including how both reduce premature mortality. 1 CEC
• Bingocize^®: An Evidence-based Health Promotion Program for Improving the Quality of Life of Older Adults | Bingocize^® is an evidence-based health promotion program that strategically combines exercise, health education, and the game of bingo. Investigations funded by the National institute on Aging and the U.S. Center for Medicare and Medicaid have shown the program is capable of improving functional performance, cognition, and health knowledge in older adults with varying levels of physical and cognitive abilities. 3 CECs

Exercise for weight loss comes in at #4 (up from #8 in 2023). It is being recognized that regular exercise is a contributor to improving metabolic function and reducing body fat. Exercise should include aerobic activity, strength training, and accompany dietary changes to create a caloric deficit. Exercise aids in preserving lean body mass through weight loss efforts and helps consumers maintain long-term weight loss.

Blogs and Resources

• Navigating the Impact of New Weight loss Medications | Renee J. Rogers, Ph.D., FACSM
• A Perspective on Anti-Obesity Medications | Renee J. Rogers, Ph.D., FACSM, and John M. Jakicic, Ph.D., FACSM *Member exclusive
• Don't "Weight" to Focus on a Good Night's Sleep | Melissa W. Roti, Ph.D., FACSM
• Loss of Lean Tissue During Weight Loss Increases Weight Regain in the Long Term | Catia Martins, Ph.D., and Gary R. Hunter, Ph.D. *Member exclusive
• Mythbusting: Weight Loss | Blog, Renee J. Rogers, Ph.D., FACSM
• Being Active for a Healthy Weight | Handout from Exercise is Medicine^®
• Facts on Childhood Overweight & Obesity | Article & Handout

ACSM Journal Articles

• Online Circuit Training Increases Adherence to Physical Activity: A Randomized Controlled Trial of Men with Obesity | by Keshavarz, published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise
• Pivot from Pain to Productive: Conversations about Weight Management in Youth with Obesity | by Williams and Fischer, published in Current Sports Medicine Reports
• Development and Pilot Testing of a Telehealth Weight Loss Program | by Hales and colleagues, published in the Translational Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine
• Lifestyle Strategies after Intentional Weight Loss: Results from the MAINTAIN-pc Randomized Trial | by Halliday and colleagues, published in the Translational Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine
• Helping Children with Obesity to "Move Well" to Move More | by Tsiros and colleagues, published in Current Sports Medicine Reports
• Exercise/ Physical Activity in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes: A Consensus Statement from the ACSM | by Kanaley and colleagues, published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise
• Grit: A Weight Maintenance Tool for Health Coaches | by Sperdute, published in ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal^®
• Abnormal Exercise Test or CVD History on Weight Loss or Fitness: The Look AHEAD Trial | by Jakicic and colleagues, published in the Translational Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine *Includes Infographic
• Exercise is Key to Sustaining Metabolic Gains After Bariatric Surgery | by Gualano and colleagues, published in Exercise and Sport Sciences Reviews
• Consistent Morning Exercise May Be Beneficial for Individuals with Obesity | by Schumacher and colleagues, published in Exercise and Sport Sciences Reviews
• Cognitive Training: Associations and Implications for Weight Management and Translational Research | by Szabo-Reed and Connelly, published in the Translational Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine
• Observations of a Commercial Weight Loss Program on Physical Function and Selected CVD Risk Factors | by Rogers and colleagues, published in the Translational Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine
• The Health Benefits of Exercise in Overweight and Obese Patients | by Garber, published in Current Sports Medicine Reports
• Self-Regulation Strategies for Barriers to Weight Loss | by Kompf, published in ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal^®

CEC Opportunities

• Rethinking Obesity Treatment with Fitness Pros as Key Leaders and Advocates | For years, body weight regulation has been framed in an oversimplified way: Needing to eat less (diet) and do more (physical activity) when the reality is more complex. Fortunately, the Roundtable for Obesity Solutions convened by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine has developed a framework for identifying external factors that contribute to body weight regulation and, more importantly, factors that influence physical activity and eating behavior. This course focuses on how health-fitness professionals can use this framework to boost their career and improve obesity treatment. 1 CEC
• Stop the Stigma! Person-centered, weight inclusive approaches to start using with your clients now | This course focuses on the epidemic of weight stigma and the importance of using weight-inclusive practices to treat clients living with obesity. As obesity rates rise, it has become evident that traditional, weight-centric models are proving ineffective and that a shift to more person-centered approaches is imperative for helping individuals manage their health indices. Participants will also learn about anti-fat attitudes and recognize the implications that weight stigma has on the overall health of individuals struggling with their weight. 1 CEC
• Training the Adult with Obesity | Workshop: Learn how to apply "people-first language for obesity” when training individuals with unhealthy weight aiming to empower them to live the dream of a positive and engaging exercise experience. Simple assessments, smart warm-up drills, fitness games, partner exercises, progressions and modifications for all primal movements, coaching and cueing techniques will be demonstrated. 3 CECs

This trend appears at #5 and is a revised trend from previous years, which advocated for licensure for QEPs. Licensure never peaked in the top 10, and significant policy-level barriers exist that make licensure less realistic for the fitness industry in many regions worldwide. However, reimbursement for the services that QEPs are trained to provide supports recognition of exercise professionals (i.e., personal trainers and exercise physiologists) as a part of the healthcare continuum. An ACSM Task Force was formed in 2021 to advocate for policy change allowing insurance billing for patient services performed by QEPs within their scope of practice to improve physical activity outcomes and quality of life.

ACSM EP/CEP Reimbursement Task Force | ACSM, with guidance from past president William E. Kraus, M.D., FACSM, launched a task force in March 2021 to pursue reimbursement for ACSM Clinical Exercise Physiologists^® (ACSM-CEPs) and Exercise Physiologists^® (ACSM-EPs) within the health care system.

• Academic Program Accreditation: Setting Your Students Up for Success | Blog
• How ACSM-EPs and ACSM-CEPs Can Advance the Profession's Recognition, Compensation | Blog *Member Exclusive
• Making the Business Case for CEPs | Blog
• Clinical Exercise Physiologists in the Workforce | Blog
• Henry Ford Health Reimbursement Case Study | Blog
• Physical Activity Alliance (PAA) shares physical activity current procedural terminology (CPT) codes. Learn More | View List

Employing certified professionals, appearing at #6 for 2024, has been a consistent top 10 trend. Health and fitness companies recognize the importance of hiring trained professionals to lead fitness programs. Obtaining an accredited certification communicates to consumers that a professional has obtained proficient knowledge to support them with their fitness goals. Certified professionals can be trusted to have the minimum skill level to safely prescribe exercise within their scope of practice. Maintaining accredited certifications requires evidence of continued education which is important for decreasing injury risk for consumers and reducing liability for employers.

Databases

• Search for ACSM Certified Professionals via the ACSM ProFinder
• All U.S. residents who are certified with a member organization of the US Registry of Exercise Professionals can be found on the USREPS database

ACSM Certifications

• Learn more about each of the ACSM Certifications 
  • Certified Personal Trainer
  • Certified Exercise Physiologist
  • Certified Group Exercise Instruction
  • Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist 
• ACSM offers additional specialty certifications. These Fitness Professionals have proven knowledge in specialized fields:
  • ACSM Exercise is Medicine Credential 
  • Autism Exercise Specialist Certificate
  • ACSM/ACS Certified Cancer Exercise Trainer^SM
  • ACSM/NCHPAD Inclusive Fitness Specialist Certificate Course
  • Physical Activity and Public Health Specialist Certificate Course

Articles & Resources

• 2023 Fitness Industry Compensation Trends Report (developed by IDEA & ACSM) Free for ACSM Members | Purchase the Report
• Certified Exercise Physiologists: Educated Leaders in Fitness and Beyond | by Cooper and colleagues, published in ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal^®
• Three Point Perspective: Discussing the Importance of Certification for Career Growth | by Gallo and Kercher, published in ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal^®
• Scope and Role of a Health Fitness Professional, and Scope and Role of a Clinical Exercise Physiologist | by Gallo, published in ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal^®
• ACSM Certifications: Defining an Exercise Profession from Concept to Assessment | by Magal and Neric, published in ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal^®
• To Specialize or Not to Specialize? That is the Certification Question | by Gallo, published in ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal^®

Mobile exercise apps break into the top 10 trends list at #7. It is a part of the digital technology trend category. This trend first appeared in 2021 (presumably in response to the COVID-19 pandemic). The use of mobile exercise apps allows for flexibility in program delivery. Exercise apps have impacted the market with many unique options for consumers and demonstrate effectiveness in increasing physical activity for users. Consumers can use mobile apps to track exercise activities and receive feedback on performance. Some apps integrate mechanisms for social support and provide tips for behavioral skill acquisition, both key components of health behavior change theory.

Ten Sought-After Functions in Workout Apps | Infographic

Development and Pilot Testing of a Telehealth Weight Loss Program | by Hales and colleagues, published in the Translational Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine

The History of Exercise Equipment: From Sticks and Stones to Apps and Phones| by Parrott and colleagues, published in ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal^®

Fitness Watches and Nutrition Apps: Behavioral Benefits and Emerging Concerns | by Scheid and Lupien, published in ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal^®

Ally with Your Fitness App: Help Others Maintain Motivation with the WHY-WAY-DO Framework | by Segar, published in ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal^®

Programming exercise for improved mental health lands at #8 as individuals begin to acknowledge the importance of movement on cognition and mood. Mental health includes emotional, psychological, and social well-being. About 1 in every 8 individuals globally is affected to varying degrees by mental illness, and regular exercise can serve as a protective factor. Physical activity and exercise can boost mood and improve mental health. ACSM offers resources to exercise professionals for incorporating physical activity to support mental health.

ACSM Trending Topic: Mental Health | Resource Page

Blogs & Resources

• Natural Health: Access to Nature Improves Mental Health, Physical Activity and Chronic Diseases | Jessie Fudge, M.D., FACSM
• Being Active When You have Depression and Anxiety | Spanish Version | EIM's Rx for Health Series
• Moving More to Improve Mental Health: What City Officials Need to Know | Terrell W. Zollinger, DrPH
• Integrating Eastern Mindfulness Movements into Exercise Routines in the Era of the Pandemic | Zan Gao, Ph.D., and Yingying Chen, DNP, R.N.
• Mental Health Awareness and the Role of the Exercise Professionals | Zachary Zenko, Ph.D., and Andrea Lopez, Ph.D., MPH
• Cognitive Benefits of Physical Activity for Older Adults | Jean-Charles Lebeau, Ph.D., CMPC
  
• Effects of Physical Activity on Mental Health in Vulnerable Populations | Jordan Taylor, MPH
  
• Is Adolescent Mental Health Impacted by Physical Activity and Digital Media Use? | Elina Engberg, Ph.D.

ACSM Journal Articles

• The Coming of Age of Resistance Exercise as a Primary Form of Exercise for Health | by Phillips and colleagues, published in ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal^®
• Using Martial Arts Training as Exercise Therapy Can Benefit All Ages | by Sun and colleagues, published in Exercise and Sport Sciences Reviews
• Yoga Impacts Cognitive Health: Neurophysiological Changes and Stress Regulation Mechanisms | by Voss and colleagues, published in Exercise and Sport Sciences Reviews
• Breaking Up Sedentary Behavior Optimally to Enhance Mood | by Giurgiu and colleagues, published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise_®
• HIIT as a Tool for improving Mental Health and Cognition | by Heisz and colleagues, published in ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal^®
• Promoting Physical Activity for Mental Well-Being | by Cooper, published in ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal^® *2020 Article of the Year
• Exercise arrangement is Associated with Physical and Mental Health in Older Adults | by Seino and colleagues, published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise_®
• The Role of Exercise in Preventing and Treating Depression | by Schuch and Stubbs, published in Current Sports Medicine Reports
  

CEC Opportunities

• Exercise Prescription for Mental Health and Well-being | This podcast-style conversation will address several issues related to the psychology of exercise, including tips for promoting pleasure, enjoyment, well-being and positive mental health. 1 CEC
• Mental Stability Through the Physical: We Need a Renaissance (D.B. Dill Historical Lecture, 2023) | This presentation features a historic overview of classical physical education from ancient Greece through the 1960s JFK era. Attendees will learn valuable lessons on how learning "through the physical" created mental stability, good citizenship, "physical literacy" and how physically active and proper use of leisure time determines the survival or demise of a nation. The quality of movement through the classical methods will be highlighted as a key to cognitive development and a valid solution for our current challenges with mental and physical health. 1 CEC
• The Mental Health Crisis: The Impact of Exercise and the Environment on Psychobiological Function | This course explores the physiological mechanisms by which mood and anxiety disorders increase chronic disease risk, with a major focus on the influence of exercise and the environment on psychobiological function. 1 CEC

The #9 trend represents an approach to youth training that focuses on developing motor skills, strength, and coordination. There is a rise in training facilities and programs designed to improve confidence, develop social skills, and enhance sports performance. Children and adolescents learn basic movement patterns and prepare for skill acquisition. Exercise professionals should consider continuing education or specialty training when working with this special population.

As the #10 trend, personal training has remained a staple in the top 10 fitness trends list since its inception in 2007. Personal training provides one-on-one training involving fitness testing, goal setting, and program implementation. Consumers may benefit from this service to learn effective exercise selection, safety, and recovery methods. Earning a nationally accredited credential such as those certifications offered by ACSM can prepare exercise professionals to work with a variety of clients.

Brochure

• Investing in a Personal Trainer as available in the ACSM Resource Library 

Articles

• Vetting Your Next Personal Trainer | by Parasiliti, published in ACSM's Health and Fitness Journal^®

• ACSM Certifications: Defining an Exercise Profession from Concept to Assessment | by Magal and Neric, published in ACSM's Health and Fitness Journal^®
• To Specialize or Not to Specialize? That Is the Certification Question | by Gallo, published in ACSM's Health and Fitness Journal^®
• Your Training Personality — What’s Behind the Clipboard? | by Freeman, published in ACSM's Health and Fitness Journal^®
• Scope of Practice | by Abbott, published in ACSM's Health and Fitness Journal^®

ACSM Certification

• Learn how to become an ACSM Certified Personal Trainer.
• Take the newly updated, online ACSM Certified Personal Trainer Prep Course to prepare for the exam
• Job Task Analysis of a Certified Personal Trainer. Covers the scope of practice and reviews key themes covered in the Certified Personal Trainer Exam. 
• Locate an ACSM Certified Personal Trainer using the ACSM ProFinder.
• Facebook group: ACSM Certified Personal Trainer Study Group
• Book: ACSM's Resources for the Personal Trainer, 6th Edition

Webinar

• The Journey to Becoming ACSM Certified with National Director of ACSM Certification Francis Neric, and three individuals preparing to take the ACSM exam. 

Video

• How to Pick the Right Personal Trainer
• Starting a Career at Equinox with Liz Minton, Equinox Senior Director of Personal Training Development