I guess I was wrong!

Does Exercise Really Keep Us Healthy?

Seriously?

Take a look at this drivel. The New York Times and Time Magazine have been propagating a new rash of "exercise doesn't work" articles. The American College of Sports Medicine has refuted all of their claims, but the fact that this is being published by the mainstream media really infuriates me. The ACSM does not make half-hearted recommendations based on weak research. They are very careful in their recommendations and their board will only make statements based on legitimate research. They aren't in this for the money. NY Times and Time Magazine most certainly are. A bold headline debunking any benefits from exercise definitely catches the public eye. My worry is that now people will take that information and stop exercising completely! Does that sound healthy? You decide..... Damon

New York Times article

From the American College of Sports Medicine:

Much more than a slogan, the American College of Sports Medicine puts into practice its strategic efforts to advancing the health of all. As the largest sports medicine and exercise science organization in the world, ACSM has more than 20,000 International, National, and Regional Chapter members.

ACSM was founded in 1954. Since that time, our members 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 National Center relocated to Indianapolis, Indiana, and our strong heritage, combined with our visionary approach to the future, means ACSM continues to grow and prosper both nationally and internationally. View the most significant ACSM events as identified by the ACSM Historian and the Office of Museum, History & Archives.

Working in a wide range of medical specialties, allied health professions, and scientific disciplines, our members are committed to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of sports-related injuries and the advancement of the science of exercise.

Our members’ diversity and expertise makes ACSM the largest, most respected sports medicine and exercise science organization in the world. From astronauts and athletes to people with chronic diseases or physical challenges, ACSM continues to look for and find better methods to allow individuals to live longer and more productive lives. Healthy people make a healthier society.

ACSM’s Mission Statement reflects this goal: The American College of Sports Medicine promotes and integrates scientific research, education, and practical applications of sports medicine and exercise science to maintain and enhance physical performance, fitness, health, and quality of life.

ACSM is dedicated to generating and disseminating knowledge concerning the motivation, responses, adaptations and health aspects of persons engaged in sports and exercise.

The pronouncements in this section of the ACSM Web site are advisory only, but they carry considerable weight in the development of policy by rulemaking committees, and by standards set forth by professional organizations and governmental bodies. A "Position Stand" is developed when enough research has been completed to support the position on scientific grounds. An "Opinion Statement" is developed when available scientific data do not permit the development of a formal position stand, but provide support for a given position on a crucial issue.