A Literature Review on Exercise is Medicine Initiative
Open Access
Author:
Casasanto, Jenna
Area of Honors:
Kinesiology
Degree:
Bachelor of Science
Document Type:
Thesis
Thesis Supervisors:
Francisco Javier Lopez Frias, Thesis Supervisor Lacy Marie Alexander, Thesis Honors Advisor
Keywords:
Exercise is Medicine (EiM) Physical Activity fitness industry health care professionals
Abstract:
This essay provides a comprehensive review of academic discussions surrounding the
Exercise is Medicine (EiM) initiative. It begins by introducing the initiative and overviewing the
history of exercise as a form of medicine. This use of exercise goes back to the earliest days of
civilization and has developed immensely over the last thousands of years. Subsequently, the
essay covers arguments to support EiM, emphasizing the positive aspects of connecting the
physical education and medical fields. These arguments in favor encompass a range of
perspectives, including but not limited to ethical, evolutionary, medical, biological, and cognitive
viewpoints. Additionally, the essay examines opposing arguments from EiM critics, which
mainly center on barriers, flaws, and implementation limitations. To conclude, the essay explores
potential refutations to EiM critics, helping to identify potential avenues for advancing the
initiative.
