Exercise Physiology is an extension of physiology that focuses on the changes in physiological function which occur as the human organism moves from an inactive state to an active state. In exercise physiology acute responses to a single exercise session as well as chronic adaptations to a series of exercise sessions are studied. The physiological adaptation to stress is investigated with the intention of gaining an understanding of exercise induced improvements in physiological function.

The Exercise Physiology Program of Springfield College has a longstanding tradition and prestigious reputation both nationally and internationally. The exercise physiology concentration offers two tracks of study: (1) Science and Research is designed to prepare students for advanced study at the doctoral level as well as for basic and applied research activities; and (2) Clinical is designed to prepare students for clinical research or a career in a clinical setting, or advanced study at the doctoral level.

Facilities available for research in exercise physiology include: a large multipurpose performance assessment laboratory, a biochemistry laboratory which houses state of the art research equipment, a computerized hydrostatic weighing laboratory, a computerized dynamometry laboratory as well as sophisticated metabolic testing equipment. The presentation of student research at regional and/or national scientific meetings along with the publication of research findings is one of the goals of the graduate experience in exercise physiology.

Students who receive a grade of C+ or lower in any of three courses will be expected to move from the Exercise Physiology concentration to another program or area of concentration.

Undergraduate prerequisites/competencies:

• Anatomy and Physiology I and II
• Inorganic Chemistry
• Organic Chemistry
• Biochemistry
• Physics
• Kinesiology
• Exercise Physiology
• Electrocardiography (clinical track)
• Exercise Testing and Prescription (clinical track)
• Statistics
• Selected Skills and Techniques