NSCA Bulletin 36.06 | Página 16

NSCA.COM 2014 NSCA ELECTION BOARD OF DIRECTORS — SPORTS MEDICINE PROFESSIONAL BEN REUTER, PHD, ATC, CSCS,*D EDUCATION • 1999 — Doctor of Philosophy in Health and Human Performance Auburn University • 1992 — Master of Science in Physical Education Old Dominion University • 1990 — Bachelor of Arts in Health and Physical Education Gettysburg College NSCA INVOLVEMENT • Associate Editor, podcast editor, flexibility and rehab column editor for the Strength and Conditioning Journal (SCJ) (present) • Assistant Editor for the SCJ (2006 – 2008) • Authored “Endurance Activities” column in the SCJ (2000 – 2003) • Associate Editor for the SCJ (1998 – present) VISION STATEMENT OUTLINING THE CRITICAL AND/OR SUBSTANTIVE ISSUES FACING THE NSCA, SPECIFIC GOALS FOR THE NSCA, AND AN INDICATION OF HOW SUCH GOALS MAY BE ACHIEVED The NSCA is unique as a professional organization in the exercise field. The membership shows the diversity of professions. The NSCA has recognized and continues to recognize the increasingly diverse membership by offering four certifications: Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist® (CSCS®) and NSCA-Certified Personal Trainer® (NSCACPT®), and the more recent Certified Special Populations Specialist™ (CSPS™) and Tactical Strength and ConditioningFacilitator™ (TSAC-F™). I see two important issues that the NSCA should be aware of in the next few years. Addressing these issues should be looked at as an opportunity to reaffirm the value of an NSCA Membership to current members, as well as the opportunity to bring new member into the NSCA from the rank and file of exercise and fitness professionals. Issue one is the different needs of the NSCA Membership. As someone who teaches in the collegiate setting and works with athletes/active individuals, I recognize the push/pull between practitioners and educators/researcher. The practitioners are fearful that the NSCA is becoming too research based. Conversely the educators/ researchers are always concerned that there is not enough research, and too much “gym science.” All Members, starting with the Board of Directors, should always maintain awareness that part of the NSCA Mission 16 NSCA BULLETIN | ISSUE 36.06 Statement is to disseminate research-based knowledge and its practical application to improve athletic performance and fitness. Educators/researchers need the practitioner in order for their research to have a purpose beyond publication (i.e., practical application). Practitioners need to ensure that their practices rely on researchbased knowledge both to maximize value to athletes/clients and to minimize professional liability risks. What makes the NSCA such a valuable professional organization is the symbiotic relationship between these two groups. Each group can learn from the other group, and the combined kn owledge only strengthens the NSCA’s message to the general public. Issue two is the lack of recognition about the organization by individuals who are new to the profession and/or coming from a non-athletic background. A multitude of specialty exercise and group exercise certifications/trainings exists. Many individuals are entering the health and fitness field through these certifications. The certifications typically provide individuals with the opportunity to learn how to teach a specific exercise or group exercise class. However they lack the broad based educational opportunities an organization like the NSCA provides. These individuals need to be made aware of the NSCA and the benefits membership provides. Each of us as an NSCA Member should work to showcase the benefits of membership. Whether we are educators or practitioners, we can each do our part to educate other professionals about why they should join the NSCA. The NSCA is one of the few organizations that provide membership with two peer-reviewed journals. Strength and Conditioning Journal provides the practitioner with immediately