The Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology (CSEP) Youth Outreach Program was initiated to help foster the enjoyment and benefits of regular physical activity as well as increased awareness of the opportunities in the world of exercise science for all youth. Through this program, CSEP Ambassadors deliver exercise/fitness workshops that include information about physical activity, exercise science and potential career pathways that are available. The aim is to focus on schools/community centres and youth mentorship programs to ensure that there is a broad reach to all interested individuals and groups.
Additionally, the program may provide opportunities for youth to visit exercise science research labs of participating academic members/ or partnering facilities and organizations. Of course, at this time full consideration of the restrictions of the COVID-19 crisis will be in effect. It is the hope that the program will provide the opportunity for CSEP to grow and represent the rich opportunities both educationally and professionally in the diverse career of exercise physiology.
This initiative, which is not small or easy to carry out, has engaged the active participation of as many CSEP members from a wide array of background experiences. CSEP members are already doing great things in their communities; and this is a new initiative that is hoping to inspire the next generation of exercise physiologists.
This initiative has three key focus age groups.
13 and under (Grade K – 7)
We intend to inform and inspire students under the age of 13 to engage in physical activity and understand the associated benefits. Our highly trained professionals from an assortment of career paths include personal trainers, researchers and performance specialists who have worked in education, high-performance sport, developmental sport for youth, and physical literacy.
Topics that are currently covered include:
- Fitness Benefits and CSEP’s Physical Activity Guidelines (ages 5-17)
- Fitness Myths (and Truths!)
- Exercise Snacks (2-5min Exercise Videos for Classrooms)
- Adaptations of Muscle to Exercise
13 – 18 years (Grades 8 – 12)
We intend to bring appreciation and understanding of physical activity to students ages 13 – 18 years old (grades 8 – 12), with the goals of promoting regular exercise for health and optimal well-being, as well as foster interest in exercise physiology for fitness and performance. Our highly trained professionals from a huge assortment of career paths which include educators, researchers, and performance specialists who have worked in education, high-performance sport, developmental sport for youth, and physical literacy.
Topics that are currently covered include…
- CSEP physical activity guidelines for ages 13 – 17 (sweat, step, sleep, and screen-time) and benefits
- Introductory cardiovascular training
- Advanced Cardiovascular training
- Introduction to weight training
- Weight training for the high school athlete
- Designing a circuit training program
- Recovery, warm-up, and cool-down strategies
- Fitness Myths and Benefits
For school, program or facility inquiries, please contact info@csep.ca.
The Youth Outreach group has created this series of videos: