Purpose:

The goal of The Academy of Exercise Physiology and Sports Medicine is to prepare our students to pursue careers related to the support of  healthy lifestyles and to guide students in becoming role models for exemplary health and wellness. Since the mid-seventies, there has been a sharp increase in the prevalence of overweight and obese children. For children aged 6–11 years, prevalence increases from 6.5% to 18.8%; and for those aged 12–19 years, prevalence increases from 5.0% to 17.4%. These increasing rates raise concern because of their implications for Americans’ health. Being overweight or obese increases the risk of many debilitating diseases and chronic health conditions.  These statistics speak to the need for professionals to address the issues related to health and fitness. 

• Students accepted into The Academy of Exercise Physiology and Sports Medicine benefit from a nurturing single gender community for three classes per day and will be a part of the larger school environment for the remaining three classes.

• Through course work, seminars, field studies, and after school programs, students study advanced anatomy and physiology, the mechanics of movement, the physics of motion, and exploration of the historical implications of heath and fitness.  Areas of focus such as personal safety (to include Cyber-Safety), nutrition, CPR and treatment of athletic injuries are explored..   

• An optional after-school program will be offered from 2:30-5:30 M-TH for a weekly fee of $50.  The after-school program will include homework time, an aerobic activity period, and instruction in such topics as: general first aide and childcare certification.  A wide range of group and individual intramural sports and activities  such as golf, tennis, lacrosse, or swimming  will be offered. 

• The emphasis on health and wellness extends to the core content areas of the Magnet Program.  Academy students will remain together for science and social studies classes in addition to the specialized fitness class.  Both regular and honors level classes are available within the magnet program.

• Quarterly family seminars are scheduled where parents and students come together to explore topics focusing on maintaining healthy lifestyles. Students may assess their parents’ fitness levels and together  design a family fitness program where the goal of lifelong fitness is established for everyone.

• A specialized offering within the Academy, the Get Fit program, is designed to provide a variety of activities that promote wellness, fitness, gross motor development, and fine motor skills. Using state of the art equipment and technology, students produce an individual health and fitness profile sent home monthly.  These profiles will also be used to develop a personalized health and fitness portfolio and create a customized exercise and nutrition program. 

1) set goals for and exhibit a  healthy level of fitness
2) develop skills basic to games and sports
3) develop qualities of leadership and sportsmanship
4) learn the importance of proper nutrition
5) gain life skills that will carry over into adult life including life-saving skills such as CPR and first aid

Partnerships:

Blue Cross Blue Shield of South Carolina Foundation

USC – Physical Education Department

USC – Nursing Department 

Baptist Hospital – Physical Therapy 

American Heart Association
American Red Cross
Polar

Visit us again.