HFPR-290 Health and Fitness Practicum

Credits 3 / 3 Contact Hours
Pre-requisite: Placement into ACRD-090, ACRD-091 or ACRD-092, completion of ELAP-110 with a minimum grade of 2.0, or successful completion of ACRD-080; HFPR-210 and HFPR-220.
The Health and Fitness Practivum is designed for continued development and practical application of skills learned and developed within the Health and Fitness Professional Program. Students will utilize conceptual and professional skills by working with clients in one on one and group exercise settings. These experiences will aid in relating program content to real-life settings and situations, therby strengthening and deepening learning and assisting in the development a network of professional contacts, clientele, and possible mentors. Students will engage in professional-level work, following industry recommended procedures and guidelines, while relating theory and research to proactice. Importantly, the course connects students to the professional world of the health and fitness industry and provides opportunities to apply and develop the knowledge and skills acquired through coursework in a real work setting.

Course Outcomes
1. Students will demonstrate an understanding of professional recommendations and guidelines for human activity by creating unique fitness plans for clients based on initial health assessments and client goals 2. Students will assess proper form and technique of participants during instructional sessions, utilizing best practices and procedures as described by professional industry (ASCM, NETA, etc.) in a variety of health and fitness related activities 3. Students will perform duties and responsibilities in a professional, ethical manner consistent with procedures utilized by professional organizations (ACMS, NETA, etc.) during training sessions with clients 4. Students will utilize active listening and effective communication skills and establish positive rapport within the training environment by providing specific corrective feedback and motivation during training sessions 5. Students will demonstrate safe and effective training techniques consistent with procedures recommended by professional organizations (ACSM, NETA, etc.) 6. Students will maintain a safe physical environment for clients by ensuring equipment is in good working order, is properly sanitized, and is utilized correctly during training sessions 7. Students will demonstrate professional level understanding and application of skills and responsibilities related to client records, privacy information, charting progress and program review by compiling detailed records for client review at the conclusion of their training program 8. Students will create a professional portfolio detailing skills and experience which relate directly to the health and fitness industry including, but not limited to, examples of pre-assessment questionnaire, fitness assessment inventory, program design plan, cover letter, and current resume.