Embracing Practical Fitness: A New Era of Evidence-Based Knowledge

In the ever-evolving world of fitness and wellness, staying informed can be a challenge. However, recent developments provide exciting opportunities for coaches and fitness enthusiasts alike. The National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) has introduced a groundbreaking publication that promises to bridge the gap between science and practical application in the gym.

Introducing the Journal of Fitness, Wellness, and Human Performance

The NASM’s new Journal of Fitness, Wellness, and Human Performance (JFWHP) aims to offer peer-reviewed research that is both accessible and actionable for fitness professionals. This innovative resource focuses on practical insights that coaches can easily integrate into their daily routines, fostering improved performance and well-being for their clients.

Scheduled for biannual publication in partnership with KGL Meridian, JFWHP will cover a wide range of topics, including fitness and sports performance, wellness, nutrition, dietetics, sports medicine, and physical therapy. As Mike Fantigrassi, NASM’s head of product, states, “Our mission is to empower professionals with a trusted source of peer-reviewed research and practical insights.”

Credit: NASM

The publication will not only be a valuable resource for NASM members but also provide select articles available to the public. Additionally, NASM is encouraging researchers, clinician-scientists, and subject matter experts to contribute practitioner-focused research, further enhancing the relevance of the publication.

The Growing Demand for Credibility in Fitness

Today’s consumers are more informed than ever. A shift in fitness culture has moved away from solely aesthetics, with a significant focus now placed on longevity and metabolic health. This change has pushed fitness brands to step up their game. Consumers actively engage with researchers on social media, listen to expert podcasts, and demand transparency from brands, holding them accountable for unsubstantiated claims.

Fitness companies like Hyrox, on the forefront of the fitness racing movement, have also embraced this trend. Their newly established Science Advisory Council works with leading academics to produce comprehensive research reports and oversee multiple annual projects.

The trend extends into the wellness industry as well. Major players like Therabody are making substantial investments in research initiatives, collaborating with respected organizations such as the American College of Sports Medicine. Brands like Bon Charge and Next Health have also established scientific boards, working with renowned experts in functional medicine.

Conclusion: Knowledge as a Catalyst for Change

The launch of the Journal of Fitness, Wellness, and Human Performance represents a significant step toward integrating science into everyday fitness practices. As consumers demand more credible and scientifically backed information, the fitness and wellness industry must adapt to this new landscape. Coaches and fitness professionals now have access to invaluable resources that empower them to provide superior results for their clients. By embracing a culture of evidence-based practice, we can look forward to a future where fitness is both effective and sustainable.