The academic study of exercise and sport sciences E-Book

Ferdinando Cereda

• Herausgeber: tab edizioni
• Kategorie: Lebensstil
• Sprache: Englisch

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2025

Beschreibung

This work unveils the academic, professional, and cultural evolution of exercise and sport sciences, critically exploring its identity, educational models, and societal role. Bridging global and Italian contexts, it examines kinesiology’s foundations, reforms, and epistemological tensions, proposing integrated, evidence-based frameworks. It is both a reflective analysis and a call to action for a cohesive, interdisciplinary future in movement science.

Leseprobe

The Book

This work unveils the academic, professional, and cultural evolution of exercise and sport sciences, critically exploring its identity, educational models, and societal role. Bridging global and Italian contexts, it examines kinesiology’s foundations, reforms, and epistemological tensions, proposing integrated, evidence-based frameworks. It is both a reflective analysis and a call to action for a cohesive, interdisciplinary future in movement science.

Author

Ferdinando Cereda, after receiving his degree from Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Milan, pursued a specialized course at the University of Milan “Bicocca” and a second-level Master’s degree at the University of Rome “Tor Vergata”. He then completed his academic journey with a PhD at the University of Milan “La Statale”. Currently, he holds the position of Associate Professor MEDF-01/A (qualified for full professorship since 2023) at the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Milan, where he has been teaching Methods and Teaching of Motor Activities in the L-22 and LM-67 degree courses since 2002. Cereda has authored several monographs and scientific publications in the exercise science field.

Ricerche educative e scienze motorie | RESM

La collana ospita contributi inerenti alla ricerca educativa nelle scienze motorie e le ricerche, educative e no, sulle scienze motorie.

Per quanto concerne le ricerche educative le tematiche, i problemi, gli obiettivi e i contesti di ricerca riguardano i fini dell’educazione e dell’istruzione, i metodi educativi e didattici per raggiungerli, i soggetti nei confronti dei quali tali metodologie vengono applicate.

Particolare risalto è dato all’approccio descrittivo, empirico e sperimentale, basato sull’utilizzo di metodi quantitativi, tipici della ricerca nomotetica, e qualitativi, tipici della ricerca idiografica, senza trascurare quegli studi teoretici che definiscono lo statuto epistemologico e i problemi assiologici e normativi di questo ambito del sapere, prendendo in considerazione la ricerca storica e comparativa in senso sia diacronico sia sincronico.

La collana, inoltre, ha come intento il superamento dell’attuale frammentazione del settore dedicato alle scienze motorie (EDF) in Italia, dal recente passato fino a oggi il problema maggiore è quello di tenere unite le due principali correnti della disciplina: quella umanistico-pedagogica e quella biomedica.

FERDINANDO CEREDA

The academic study of exercise and sport sciences

Behind the scenes

tab edizioni

© 2025 Gruppo editoriale Tab s.r.l.

viale Manzoni 24/c

00185 Roma

www.tabedizioni.it

Prima edizione novembre 2025

ISBN versione cartacea 979-12-5669-238-5

ISBN versione digitale 979-12-5669-239-2

È vietata la riproduzione, anche parziale,

con qualsiasi mezzo effettuata, compresa la fotocopia,

senza l’autorizzazione dell’editore.

Tutti i diritti sono riservati.

The Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Milan (Italy) contributed to the funding of this research project and its publication.

Indice

Glossary

Review methodology

Introduction

Chapter 1. The ubiquity and significance of human movement

1.1. The disciplines of exercise science and kinesiology: a renaissance of physical culture

1.2. The evolution and scope of kinesiology: from physical education to interdisciplinary science of human movement

1.3. The science of exercise: enhancing health, performance, and recovery through evidence-based practice

1.4. The interplay between exercise science and kinesiology

1.5. The three pillars of exercise sciences: experiential learning, scholarly inquiry, and professional practice

1.6. Exercise science and professional careers

1.7. Beyond the body: holistic perspectives in exercise science

Chapter 2. The exercise and sport sciences curriculum in Italian landscape

2.1. Beyond biomedicine: reintegrating the core disciplines of kinesiology in exercise science education

2.2. The evolution of physical education and sports science in Italy: from I.S.E.F. to European-aligned academic structures

2.3. The scientific knowledge in the Italian university context

2.4. The Italian Ministerial Reform of 2023

2.5. L-22: Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise and Sport and Sciences

2.6. LM-67: Master’s Degree in Preventive and Adapted Physical Activity Sciences

2.7. LM-68: Master’s Degree Program in Sports Science and Techniques

2.8. LM-47: Master’s Degree Program in Organization and Management of Sports and Physical Activity Services

2.9. From tradition to innovation: the evolution and challenges of academic structuring in exercise and sport sciences

2.10. Towards a coherent and structured core curriculum in exercise and sport sciences

Chapter 3. Redefining kinesiology and sport sciences in Italy. Bridging educational reform, scientific identity, and epistemological clarity

3.1. The 2021 sport reform and the rise of the kinesiologist profession

3.2. Scientific identity and epistemological challenges in kinesiology and sport sciences

3.3. Persistent disciplinary overlaps and the need for autonomy

3.4. Toward a unified framework: lessons from international standards

3.5. Forging a cohesive future for KSS in Italy

Chapter 4. The exercise professional in focus. A comparative analysis of role clarity and legislative frameworks in Italy and beyond

4.1. Legitimizing movement: Toward a coherent professional identity for the exercise specialist in global and Italian contexts

4.2. The global ambiguity of the exercise professionals

4.3. The Italian model: legislative clarity and the kinesiologist

4.4. Comparative analysis: Italy vs. global perspectives

4.5. Toward a unified yet contextual framework

4.6. Conclusion

Chapter 5. The global convergence of exercise science curricula and its impact on professional practice

5.1. Reclaiming the foundations of exercise science: the case for a broader and more integrated curriculum

5.2. The restricted scope of exercise science education

5.3. The perils of excessive specialization in exercise science

5.4. The paradox of exercise science: a discipline in search of distinction

5.5. Insufficient evidence and the gap between theory and practice

5.6. The advantages of a multidisciplinary approach in exercise science

5.7. From theory to practice: advancing exercise science education through interdisciplinary learning

Chapter 6. University teaching in exercise and sport sciences. Knowledge, skills, and abilities

6.1. Educating the modern kinesiologist: integrating knowledge, skills, and competencies in exercise and sport sciences

6.2. Theoretical knowledge in exercise sciences

6.3. Skills

6.4. Cross-disciplinary and professional abilities

6.5. Teaching methods for the development of transversal abilities

6.6. Alignment with the job market

6.7. Future perspectives

6.8. Conclusions

Chapter 7. Physical activity through the ages. A journey from biomedical beginnings to a global imperative

7.1. Historical developments in physical activity

7.2. Current approaches to physical activity

7.3. Future directions for physical activity

7.4. Conclusions

Chapter 8. Advancing exercise science through evidence-based practice. Bridging research, education, and application

8.1. Closing the gap: from research to real-world application

8.2. Evidence-based practice: foundations and challenges

8.3. Bridging the gap: collaboration and accessibility

8.4. Building expertise through education

8.5. Revolutionizing EBP with artificial intelligence and slow science

8.6. Evidence-based programs: proven strategies in action

8.7. The future of exercise science: integration and innovation

8.8. Conclusions

Chapter 9. From analysis to action. Practical applications and guidelines in kinesiology and sport sciences

9.1. Synthesising the kinesiologist’s role: a framework for application (Italian context)

9.2. Bridging theory and practice: key principles for action

9.3. Illustrative scenarios: principles in practice

9.4. Implications for education and training

9.5. Conclusion: advancing KSS through action

References

Glossary

06/MEDF-01: Previous 06/N2, Scientific-Disciplinary Group (SDG) within Area 6 (Medical Sciences), designated as Physical Exercise and Sport Sciences, introduced following the provisions of DM n. 639 on 2 May 2024 (Gazzetta Ufficiale, 2024) has been in use since May 1, 2024.

06/N2: Academic recruitment field (ARF), designated as Physical Exercise and Sport Sciences, introduced following the provisions of Ministerial Decree (DM) No. 336 of 29 July 2011 (Gazzetta Ufficiale, 2011), was in use until May 1, 2024.

Adapted Physical Activity: Physical exercise programmes, the type and intensity of which are defined through professional and organisational integration between general practitioners (GPs), paediatricians (PLS), and specialist doctors, and tailored to the functional conditions of the individuals for whom they are intended. These individuals have chronically controlled and stabilised health conditions or physical disabilities, and carry out the activities in groups under the supervision of a professional with specific expertise, in non-healthcare settings such as “health gyms”, with the aim of improving the level of physical activity, well-being, and quality of life, and promoting socialisation (Gazzetta Ufficiale, 2021, Legislative Decree 28 February 2021, No. 36, Article 2, paragraph 1, letter e). In the Italian context, this is a focus of the LM-67 master’s degree program.

Aesthetics Exercise: Physical activity undertaken with the primary goal of altering bodily appearance, often driven by cultural beauty standards and psychological motivations. This concept bridges aesthetic aspirations with physiological adaptation, as explored in Chapter 1.

Biomechanics: The scientific study of the mechanical principles governing human movement, integrating physics and biology to analyze forces, motion, and structure. A foundational subdiscipline of kinesiology and exercise science.

Corporeal Transformation: The deliberate reshaping of the body through physical activity, encompassing both aesthetic and functional outcomes. This term highlights the interplay between societal values, individual identity, and physiological change.

Eudaimonia: An Aristotelian concept referring to human flourishing or well-being, invoked in the book to frame the historical ethos of physical education as a means to achieve optimal living through movement.

Evidence-Based Practice (EBP): The integration of the best available research evidence with clinical expertise and client values to inform decision-making in exercise science and related fields. A central theme of Chapter 8, emphasizing its role in bridging research and application.

Exercise Physiology: A subdiscipline of exercise science focused on the physiological responses and adaptations of the body to physical activity, including cardiovascular, muscular, and metabolic changes.

Exercise Science: An academic and professional field dedicated to the systematic study and application of physical activity to enhance health, performance, and recovery, grounded in empirical research and evidence-based practice.

Experiential Learning: A pedagogical approach in exercise science where knowledge is acquired through direct participation in physical activity, complementing theoretical study and professional practice. One of the three pillars outlined in Chapter 1.

Higher Institute of Physical Education (I.S.E.F.): An Italian institution established by Law n. 88 (1958) to provide post-secondary education in physical education, serving as a precursor to modern Exercise and Sport Sciences degree programs until its transformation in 1998.

Holism: A perspective in exercise science that recognizes the interdependence of mind, body, emotion, and spirit, rejecting reductionist views of physical activity as solely mechanical. Explored in Chapter 1’s discussion of “Beyond the Body”.

Human Movement: The broad spectrum of physical actions performed by individuals, ranging from daily tasks (e.g., walking, reaching) to specialized skills (e.g., athletic performance), serving as the central focus of kinesiology and exercise science.

Interdisciplinary Approach: A method of inquiry or education that integrates knowledge and methodologies from multiple academic disciplines – such as biology, psychology, and sociology – to study complex phenomena like physical activity.

Kinesiology: An academic discipline that investigates physical activity and its impact on health, society, and quality of life, encompassing subdisciplines like biomechanics, exercise physiology, and motor learning. Defined by the American Kinesiology Association (AKA) and contextualized in Italy by the National Union of Kinesiologists (UNC, Unione Nazionale dei Chinesiologi).

KSS (Kinesiology and Sport Sciences): A multidisciplinary field encompassing the study of human movement, exercise, and sports, integrating scientific principles from biomechanics, physiology, psychology, and pedagogy.

L-22: The Italian bachelor’s degree class in Exercise and Sports Sciences, introduced as part of the “3+2” structure, providing foundational education in movement sciences with cultural, scientific, and professional objectives.

LM-47: A master’s degree program in Italy focused on the “Organization and Management of Sports and Physical Activity Services”, emphasizing managerial competencies in sports and motor activities.

LM-67: A master’s degree program in Italy titled “Preventive and Adapted Physical Activity Sciences”, concentrating on designing and implementing physical activity interventions for health promotion and rehabilitation.

LM-68: A master’s degree program in Italy known as “Sports Science and Techniques”, targeting advanced technical and scientific knowledge for sports performance and training.

M-EDF/01: Methods and Teaching of Motor Activities, academic discipline introduced in accordance with Legislative Decree No. 178 of May 8, 1998 (Gazzetta Ufficiale, 1998), was in use until May 1, 2024.

M-EDF/02: Methods and Teaching of Sports Activities, academic discipline introduced in accordance with Legislative Decree No. 178 of May 8, 1998 (Gazzetta Ufficiale, 1998), was in use until May 1, 2024.

MEDF-01/A: Methods and Teaching of Motor Activities, academic discipline introduced in accordance with Ministerial Decree No. 639 of May 2, 2024 (Gazzetta Ufficiale, 2024), has been in use since May 9, 2024.

MEDF-01/B: Methods and Teaching of Sports Activities, academic discipline introduced in accordance with Ministerial Decree No. 639 of May 2, 2024 (Gazzetta Ufficiale, 2024), has been in use since May 9, 2024.

Motor Behavior: The study of how motor skills are learned, controlled, and developed across the lifespan, integrating psychological and neurological perspectives within kinesiology and exercise science.

Motor Learning: A subfield of motor behavior examining the processes by which individuals acquire and refine movement skills through practice and experience, critical to both athletic training and rehabilitation.

Movement Science Professionals: Individuals trained in exercise science or kinesiology who apply their expertise in educational, preventive, recreational, or athletic contexts, such as kinesiologists recognized under Italy’s 2021 sport reform.

Musculoskeletal Care: The application of exercise and movement-based interventions to restore, maintain, or optimize the function of the musculoskeletal system, bridging therapeutic restoration and proactive prevention (Chapter 1).

National Union of Kinesiologists (UNC): An Italian professional association, legally recognized since 1962, representing graduates in Exercise Science and former I.S.E.F. students, advocating for the kinesiologist profession.

Physical Activity: Any voluntary bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that requires energy expenditure, encompassing both unstructured activities (e.g., walking) and structured exercise regimens.

Physical Culture: A historical and cultural framework promoting physical activity as a means of personal and societal development, experiencing a renaissance through modern exercise science and kinesiology.

Prehabilitation: Proactive exercise interventions designed to strengthen the body and reduce injury risk before a potential stressor (e.g., surgery or athletic competition), contrasting with rehabilitation’s remedial focus.

Professional Practice: The application of exercise science knowledge in real-world settings, such as athletic training, rehabilitation, or fitness programming, forming one of the three pillars of the discipline (Chapter 1).

Rehabilitation: The use of therapeutic exercise to restore functional capacity diminished by injury, illness, or aging, a key application of exercise science in medical and allied health contexts.

Scholarly Inquiry: The systematic pursuit of knowledge through research, theoretical analysis, and intellectual dialogue, constituting one of the three pillars of exercise science and driving its scientific foundation.

Sport Pedagogy: The study and practice of teaching and learning in sports and physical education, emphasizing educational methodologies to enhance skill development and engagement.

Sport Psychology: A subdiscipline exploring the psychological factors influencing sport performance and physical activity participation, including motivation, anxiety, and team dynamics.

Sport Reform (2021): Italian legislation (Decree n. 36, 2021) aimed at reorganizing sports entities and recognizing the kinesiologist profession, addressing educational and professional implications (Chapter 3).

Subdisciplines: Specialized areas within exercise science and kinesiology – e.g., biomechanics, exercise physiology, sport psychology – that collectively contribute to the broader study of human movement.

Supervised Physical Exercise (SPE): Planned and repetitive physical activity programmes specifically defined through professional and organisational integration between general practitioners (GPs), paediatricians (PLS), and specialist doctors, based on the clinical conditions of individual patients for whom they are intended. These individuals present health conditions or risk factors and carry out the activities individually under the supervision of a professional with specific expertise, in non-healthcare settings such as “health gyms”, with the aim of improving or maintaining physical fitness, physical performance, and overall health status (Gazzetta Ufficiale, 2021, Legislative Decree 28 February 2021, No. 36, Article 2, paragraph 1, letter t).

Therapeutic Exercise: Structured physical activity prescribed to address specific health conditions or rehabilitative needs, extending beyond remediation to include preventive and quality-of-life enhancements (Chapter 1).

Transversal Competencies: Broad, transferable skills (e.g., critical thinking, communication, adaptability) deemed essential across Italian degree programs in Exercise and Sports Sciences, enhancing employability.

Review methodology

This book adopts a narrative review methodology to synthesize the academic, professional, and policy dimensions of exercise and sport sciences, with a particular emphasis on their evolution and contemporary challenges. The narrative approach was selected to provide a comprehensive, interpretive overview of the field, integrating historical developments, educational frameworks, and scientific advancements into a cohesive narrative that bridges theory and practice. Unlike systematic reviews, which prioritize exhaustive searches and quantitative synthesis, this narrative methodology was deliberately selected as most appropriate for synthesising the different historical, legislative, pedagogical, and scientific threads across disparate international and national contexts. This approach allows for the interpretive depth necessary to explore the complexities and nuances of the field’s evolution and current challenges, a scope often constrained by the stricter protocols of systematic reviews.

The source selection process began with a purposive sampling of foundational and contemporary works in exercise science, kinesiology, and related subdisciplines (e.g., biomechanics, exercise physiology, motor learning). Key texts were identified through academic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, using search terms including “exercise science”, “kinesiology”, “physical activity education”, “Italian sports science curriculum”, and “evidence-based practice in sports”. To ensure relevance to the Italian context, official policy documents (e.g., Gazzetta Ufficiale decrees) and publications from Italian academic bodies (e.g., UNC, 2025) were retrieved from governmental and institutional repositories. The reference lists of seminal works were also mined to capture additional influential studies.

Inclusion criteria focused on sources that addressed the manuscript’s core themes: the historical evolution of the field, educational structures (global and Italian-specific), professional applications, and epistemological challenges. English- and Italian-language publications from peer-reviewed journals, books, and policy reports were prioritized, with a temporal scope spanning foundational works (e.g., Henry, 1964) to recent contributions. While no formal exclusion criteria were applied, preference was given to studies with robust empirical or theoretical grounding over anecdotal or non-peer-reviewed materials.

The synthesis process involved thematic analysis, wherein sources were categorized according to the manuscript’s chapter structure (e.g., human movement significance, Italian curriculum, evidence-based practice). Findings were critically evaluated to identify trends, gaps, and tensions in the literature – such as the narrowing of curricula or the fragmented identity of KSS – and integrated with legislative and statistical data to ground the discussion in real-world contexts. While this approach lacks the statistical rigor of meta-analyses, it compensates with a holistic, interpretive lens suited to the book’s exploratory objectives.

Limitations of this methodology include potential selection bias due to the purposive nature of source identification and the absence of a systematic protocol for exhaustiveness. To mitigate this, efforts were made to cross-reference claims with multiple sources and incorporate diverse perspectives, including international benchmarks (e.g., ERC model, WHO guidelines). Readers are encouraged to view this work as a scholarly synthesis rather than a definitive empirical study, with its strength lying in its integrative narrative and contextual depth.

Introduction

The study of human movement – its mechanics, its meanings, and its manifold impacts – stands as one of the most dynamic and interdisciplinary pursuits within contemporary academia. This book emerges from a deep-seated conviction that the fields of exercise science, while ostensibly united by their focus on physical activity, are at a critical juncture. They are disciplines shaped by a rich historical legacy, propelled by scientific rigour, and yet perpetually challenged by societal expectations, institutional constraints, and epistemological tensions.

The aim is to peel back the layers of this academic enterprise, revealing not only its intellectual foundations but also the intricate interplay of forces that define its present and will dictate its future.

The genesis of this work lies in recognition of the ubiquity and significance of human movement, a theme that reverberates through the opening chapter. Movement is not merely a physical act; it is a fundamental expression of human existence, threading through the mundane and the extraordinary alike. From the subtle adjustments of posture to the explosive dynamism of athletic performance, movement constitutes a lens through which everybody can understand health, culture, identity, and capability. Yet, despite its pervasiveness, the systematic study of movement – encapsulated in the disciplines of exercise science and kinesiology – remains a relatively young field, one that has undergone dramatic transformations over the past century. This book seeks to chronicle that evolution, interrogate its current state, and propose pathways toward a more cohesive and impactful future.

Historically, the academic study of physical activity traces its roots to the physical education programmes of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a period when the cultivation of bodily vigour was seen as a moral and societal imperative. In North America, the term kinesiology emerged to denote a broad, interdisciplinary science of human movement by the late 20th century. In Italy, a parallel trajectory unfolded, with institutions like the Higher Institute of Physical Education (I.S.E.F.) laying the groundwork for what would become a robust academic framework aligned with European standards. These historical developments, detailed in Chapters 1 and 2, illustrate a shift from prescriptive training to a scholarly discipline grounded in empirical inquiry and evidence-based practice. Yet, this transition has not been without its fractures. As the field expanded, it splintered into subdisciplines – biomechanics, exercise physiology, motor learning, sport psychology – each vying for prominence and resources, often at the expense of a unified identity. This fragmentation manifests practically; for instance, whilst the role of a physiotherapist is relatively standardised globally, the ‘exercise professional’ title encompasses vastly different scopes of practice internationally, ranging from community fitness instruction to specialised clinical rehabilitation, often lacking consistent legislative backing or clear integration pathways into healthcare systems (as explored further in Chapter 4).

This fragmentation is not merely an academic curiosity; it has profound implications for how professors educate students, conduct research, and apply knowledge in professional settings. The surge in undergraduate enrolments in exercise science and kinesiology programmes – a trend noted in the early 21st century and persisting in various forms today – reflects a societal awakening to the centrality of physical activity in health and well-being. Yet, as Chapter 5 argues, the narrowing of curricula in response to this demand has sometimes come at the cost of breadth and integration. The peril of excessive specialisation looms large, threatening to produce graduates who are technically proficient but lack the holistic perspective necessary to navigate the complexities of human movement in diverse contexts. This tension between depth and breadth, between vocational training and scholarly inquiry, recurs throughout the book – not as an abstract dilemma but as a lived challenge, examined through the lens of an educator and researcher actively engaged with these questions.

The professional landscape adds another layer of complexity, as the identity of the exercise professional remains ambiguous in many global contexts, hindering their integration into healthcare systems. Chapter 4 delves into this issue, offering a comparative analysis of role clarity and legislative frameworks, with a particular focus on Italy’s structured model of the kinesiologist versus the broader international ambiguity. By proposing a unified yet adaptable framework, this chapter underscores the need for professional legitimacy to enhance the impact of exercise specialists on public health – a theme that resonates with the educational and practical challenges explored elsewhere in the book.

This narrative aims to balance global and local dimensions, integrating international perspectives while anchoring much of the analysis within the Italian context – an especially illuminating case study. Chapter 2 delves into the evolution of the exercise and sport sciences curriculum in Italy, tracing its journey from the I.S.E.F. to the “3+2” structure of bachelor’s and master’s degrees introduced in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The Italian Ministerial Reform of 2023, explored in Chapter 2, represents a recent attempt to refine this framework, delineating clear educational pathways such as the L-22 bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Sciences and specialised master’s programmes like LM-67 (Preventive and Adapted Physical Activity Sciences) and LM-68 (Sports Science and Techniques). These reforms reflect a broader European push toward standardisation and professionalisation, yet they also expose persistent challenges: the fragmented scientific identity of the field, the overlap with allied disciplines like medicine and physiotherapy, and the struggle to secure legal and societal recognition for movement science professionals. Chapter 3 further explores these dynamics, focusing on the redefinition of kinesiology in Italy through legislative reforms like the 2021 sport reform and the rise of the kinesiologist profession, alongside the epistemological tensions that accompany such shifts.

The Italian experience is emblematic of a larger global narrative, one in which exercise science and kinesiology grapple with their place in the academic and professional hierarchy. As Chapter 7 illustrates, the role of physical activity has evolved from a biomedical curiosity – epitomised by pioneering studies like Morris et al.’s (1953) work on coronary heart disease – to a global public health imperative, enshrined in initiatives like the World Health Organization’s Global Action Plan on Physical Activity (2018-2030). This shift has elevated the stakes for the disciplines, demanding not only scientific excellence but also the ability to translate research into policy and practice. Yet, as Chapter 8 contends, the promise of evidence-based practice – a cornerstone of modern exercise science – remains only partially realised. The gap between laboratory findings and real-world application persists, exacerbated by institutional silos, funding priorities, and a reluctance among some practitioners to embrace rigorous scientific methods.

This book, then, is both a celebration and a critique. It celebrates the renaissance of physical culture that has seen exercise science and kinesiology emerge as vital academic fields, contributing to advancements in health promotion, athletic performance, and therapeutic innovation. The three pillars of exercise science – experiential learning, scholarly inquiry, and professional practice – form the bedrock of this progress, as articulated in Chapter 1. Through direct engagement with movement, rigorous research, and applied expertise, the discipline has developed to bridge the mind and body, as well as theory and action. Yet, the critique is equally pressing. The field’s fragmented identity, its epistemological tensions, and its struggle for autonomy – themes explored in Chapters 3 and 5 – underscore the need for a more unified framework. In Italy, the rise of the kinesiologist profession, catalysed by the 2021 sport reform and further clarified in Chapter 4’s legislative analysis, exemplifies both the promise and the pitfalls of this endeavour, as legal recognition battles against disciplinary overlaps and cultural inertia.

The perspective presented here is shaped by the dual role of educator and researcher, where the classroom and the laboratory function not as separate realms but as interconnected spaces for the generation and dissemination of knowledge. Chapter 6 reflects this ethos, examining the knowledge, skills, and abilities that define university teaching in exercise and sport sciences. Theoretical foundations – anatomy, physiology, biomechanics – must be paired with practical competencies and transversal abilities, such as critical thinking and adaptability, to prepare students for a job market that increasingly demands versatility. This holistic approach, consistently advanced throughout the book, rejects the false dichotomy between mind and body, as well as theory and practice, instead embracing movement as a multifaceted phenomenon that demands an equally multifaceted response.

The international dimension of this work is equally critical. Chapter 5’s exploration of the narrowing of exercise science curricula draws on comparative perspectives, contrasting the Italian model with those in North America, Australia, and beyond. The perils of excessive specialisation – a global trend – threaten to undermine the field’s ability to address the diverse needs of special populations, occupational settings, and public health initiatives. By contrast, the advantages of a multidisciplinary approach, integrating biomechanics, motor behaviour, and mind-body training, offer a path forward. Similarly, Chapter 7’s historical journey through physical activity – from its biomedical beginnings to its current status as a global imperative – underscores the need for systems-based approaches that transcend national boundaries and disciplinary silos.

This book is not a static treatise but a call to action. It invites scholars, educators, and practitioners to engage in a dialogue about the future of exercise science and kinesiology. The proposed frameworks – whether the core curriculum guidelines for Italian degree programmes in Chapter 2, the keyword framework for Kinesiology and Sport Sciences (KSS) aligned with the European Research Council model in Chapter 3, or the unified yet contextual framework for exercise professionals in Chapter 4 – are not prescriptive endpoints but starting points for collaboration and refinement. The integration of artificial intelligence and slow science into evidence-based practice, as explored in Chapter 8, marks a transformative shift in bridging research, education, and application. Though still in their early stages, these innovations have the potential to enhance precision and accessibility, extending their impact beyond the academic sphere and into practical, real-world contexts. To further concretise these pathways and translate the preceding analyses into actionable takeaways, the discussion culminates in a dedicated final chapter (Chapter 9) offering practical guidelines and applications for students, educators, and professionals seeking to navigate and shape the future of the field.

This book draws upon a wealth of personal and professional experience, enriched by the insights of colleagues, students, and practitioners who have contributed to a deeper understanding of the field. The references cited – from foundational works such as Newell (1990) and Pate et al. (1995) to contemporary studies – form a tapestry of scholarship that highlights the rigour and vitality of exercise science and kinesiology. However, this is not a concluded narrative. Ongoing challenges, including disciplinary overlap, the pursuit of epistemological clarity, and the need for international alignment, remain unresolved. This book is intended to serve both as a mirror, reflecting the current state of the field, and as a map, offering guidance on potential future directions.

Chapter 1. The ubiquity and significance of human movement

The human movement constitutes a significant portion of daily life, often without conscious recognition. Even in the absence of structured exercise, athletic participation, or physically demanding labor, individuals engage in a variety of movement-based activities throughout the day. Routine tasks such as rising from bed, walking to different locations, performing personal hygiene, dressing, preparing and consuming meals, attending classes, and completing household or organizational chores all involve physical movement and exertion.

A comprehensive reflection on daily behaviors reveals the pervasive nature of physical activity. Human movement encompasses a vast range of actions, including walking, reaching, running, lifting, leaping, throwing, grasping, pushing, pulling, and numerous subtle motor adjustments such as repositioning the head for optimal vision or modifying posture. These movements are fundamental to both occupational activities – whether requiring substantial physical effort or fine motor control – and expressive endeavors such as gesture, music, visual arts, and dance.

Human movement is an intrinsic aspect of human existence, serving as a fundamental mechanism for interaction with and exploration of the surrounding environment. The integration of movement with complex cognitive processes plays a crucial role in defining human capabilities. Throughout life, individuals acquire and refine a diverse set of motor skills, beginning with basic functions such as reaching, grasping, and walking, and extending to highly specialized movements required in activities such as athletic performance, artistic expression, and technical skill execution. While most individuals attain a moderate level of proficiency across various movement-based tasks, some focus their efforts on specific skills, achieving exceptional levels of performance. For instance, professional athletes, such as professional basketball player, develop the ability to execute complex motor tasks through rigorous practice and motivation. Similarly, mastery in fields such as music performance or aviation requires extensive skill refinement, as demonstrated by a cellist’s precise control over bow placement or a pilot’s capacity to land a fighter jet on a moving aircraft carrier.

This discussion serves as an introduction to the broad concept of physical activity and its relationship to exercise and sport sciences and kinesiology, which is one of the academic disciplines devoted to its study (Newell, 1990; National Academy of Kinesiology, 2025; Cereda, 2023a; UNC, 2025). A critical examination of the subject reveals the complexity, diversity, and significance of physical activity in human life. Additionally, understanding kinesiology as a structured field of inquiry facilitates a more systematic approach to studying movement and its implications.

While personal experience with physical activity provides an initial foundation for learning about kinesiology, prior knowledge may also introduce cognitive biases. Therefore, it is essential to approach the study of physical activity with an open perspective, allowing for critical analysis and the reconsideration of assumptions considering new insights. This process, while intellectually demanding, offers an opportunity for deeper engagement with the discipline.

1.1. The disciplines of exercise science and kinesiology: a renaissance of physical culture

In the contemporary landscape of higher education, the disciplines of exercise sciences and kinesiology have witnessed a remarkable evolution, reflecting both societal shifts and academic advancements. The early 21st century marked a period of burgeoning interest in these fields, with undergraduate enrollments experiencing a significant surge. This trend, noted up to 2016, positioned exercise science and kinesiology among the most rapidly expanding majors in higher education (Stevens et al., 2018; Wojciechowska, 2010; Nuzzo, 2020; Cereda, 2025b).

However, recent analyses suggest a nuanced trajectory. While certain institutions continue to report robust enrollments, others face challenges attributed to demographic shifts and regional factors. For instance, some universities have observed enrollment declines, prompting a reevaluation of recruitment and retention strategies (Goodway, 2024). This phenomenon underscores the complexity of educational trends and the necessity for adaptive strategies in academic planning.

The expansion of career opportunities has been a pivotal factor in the sustained interest in exercise science and kinesiology. Historically centered on preparing physical education teachers and coaches, these disciplines have diversified to encompass a wide array of professions. Graduates now find pathways in fields such as athletic training, cardiac rehabilitation, fitness management, occupational therapy, physical therapy, public health, and sport management (Spittle et al., 2021). This diversification reflects a broader societal recognition of the integral role physical activity plays in health and well-being.

The contemporary job market further accentuates this trend. Positions such as exercise physiologists are projected to grow by 10% between 2023 and 2033, indicating a rising demand for professionals equipped with expertise in human movement and health optimization (Marshall University, 2023). This growth is emblematic of a societal shift towards preventive health measures and the promotion of active lifestyles.

At the core of these disciplines lies a commitment to the systematic study of physical activity. Exercise science and kinesiology are not merely vocational training grounds but are established as rigorous academic fields. They integrate knowledge from biology, psychology, and sociology to explore the multifaceted impacts of movement on the human condition. This interdisciplinary approach enriches the understanding of how physical activity influences health, learning, and longevity, positioning these disciplines as vital contributors to public health and education.

In essence, the evolution of exercise science and kinesiology reflects a dynamic interplay between academic inquiry and societal needs. As these fields continue to adapt to changing demographics and health imperatives, they reaffirm their relevance and indispensability in fostering a healthier, more active society.

1.2. The evolution and scope of kinesiology: from physical education to interdisciplinary science of human movement

In the early 20th century, the term “physical education” became predominantly associated with mandatory programs in primary and secondary schools worldwide, diverging from its original, more holistic connotation akin to exercise science and kinesiology. This shift, coupled with transformations in higher education during the late 1960s, sparked a debate over a new designation for the scientific discipline of physical education in academia (Henry, 1964; Newell, 1990; Thomas, 1987; Bertollo et al., 2024). Over time, consensus in North America coalesced around the term “kinesiology” to describe the comprehensive field focused on physical activity (American Kinesiology Association, 2025; Mahar & Crenshaw, 2015; National Academy of Kinesiology, 2025; Newell, 1990).

The American Kinesiology Association (AKA), a consortium of academic kinesiology departments across North American universities, defines kinesiology as “an academic discipline which involves the study of physical activity and its impact on health, society, and quality of life” (2025). This discipline draws upon multiple knowledge sources, including direct physical activity experiences, scholarly research on physical activity, and professional practice outcomes in implementing physical activity programs. In Italy, The National Union of Kinesiologists (UNC, 2025), legally recognized by d.p.r. 361/2000 – Legal Entities Register of Cuneo No. 347/2009, is the professional association that brings together over 2000 graduates in Exercise Science and/or graduates of Higher Institutes of Physical Education (ISEF, Istituto Superiore di Educazione Fisica). It was established by public deed in 1962 and aims to promote, protect, supervise and support the activities of its members in their professional capacity. The activities of the kinesiologist concern active rational human movement with an educational focus (physical education in schools), preventative (postural gymnastics, maintenance, elderly, fitness, etc.), formative (gymnastics for children, youth, etc.), recreational (gymnastics with music, animation, games, etc.), athletic (athletic preparation, training, etc.), adapted and compensatory.