Exercise Physiology

Exercise is Medicine

As described by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), physical inactivity is a fast-growing public health problem and contributes to a variety of chronic diseases and health complications (e.g., obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, depression, and anxiety). In addition to improving a patient’s overall health, increasing physical activity has proven effective in the treatment and prevention of chronic diseases.

Exercise is Medicine® On Campus

Exercise is Medicine® on Campus (EIM-OC) "calls upon universities and colleges to promote physical activity as a vital sign of health." The EIM Solution aims to link the clinical to the community in combating today’s most common chronic conditions through physical activity. The university/college setting is seen as the microcosm that can help bring both together in accomplishing this goal. EIM-OC is designed to engage universities and colleges, and their students, faculty, and staff in ongoing efforts to improve physical fitness, health, and wellness across campus with the possibility for community outreach. 

In 2019, West Virginia University became an official member of EIM-OC. In 2020, WVU earned Gold Status thanks to collaboration among several programs, including the WVU Division of Exercise Physiology, WVU School of Nursing, WVU Medicine, WVU Student Health, and WVU Medicine Wellness. In 2021, WVU again earned Gold Status and was also recognized as a COVID Conqueror for innovative adaptation of campus programs during the pandemic.

Campus and Community Engagement

Community engagement initiatives include teaching educational and exercise classes for seniors, children, and local firefighters. 

Campus initiatives include work with clients in the WVU Human Performance Lab; education and fitness classes for the WVU ROTC; hosting the Zombie Run in partnership with the WVU Core Arboretum; and implementation of the Provost's TransformThis! Award as Mountaineers Move.

Health care initiatives include implementation of Boxing for Power in patients with Parkinson's Disease; providing exercise training for Medical Weight Management; and partnering with the National Diabetes Prevention Program.

Resources