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Watching and learning

Concordia exercise science students get hands-on work experience at the PERFORM Centre.
September 28, 2011
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By Christian Durand


Exercise science students working as part-time floor monitors at Le Centre — the PERFORM Centre’s conditioning and rehabilitation floor — are doing more than earning a few extra dollars this semester. They are gaining a better understanding of the world of fitness and how it relates to their studies.

“Education is one of the main components of the PERFORM Centre and we want to incorporate this in all aspects of our operations,” explains Marion Lowe, the centre’s clinical exercise program manager. “When we discussed how Le Centre would be staffed during operating hours, it made sense to offer these positions to students who would benefit from this work experience.”

Floor monitor Audrey Doyon-Lessard gives biology student Braedon Donaldson pointers for a more effective workout as he trains at Le Centre. | Photo by Christian Durand
Floor monitor Audrey Doyon-Lessard gives biology student Braedon Donaldson pointers for a more effective workout as he trains at Le Centre. | Photo by Christian Durand

There are 22 students from the Department of Exercise Science working as floor monitors at Le Centre this semester. They are responsible for ensuring that Le Centre is a welcoming environment for users and that members adhere to the facility’s rules and regulations. Working closely with the public in the PERFORM Centre’s diverse environment gives the monitors the personal skills they’ll need when they graduate.

“Learning how to connect with people is essential for future success in the field of exercise science,” says Alicia Wright, a certified exercise physiologist and exercise science graduate who works as the conditioning and rehabilitation co-ordinator at PERFORM. “Working with our clientele allows floor monitors to get a better understanding of the strengths and limitations of diverse populations.”

Floor monitors observe first-hand what they were taught in the classroom through the activities that take place on the conditioning floor. “Seeing the equipment in use will definitely help me in my studies as it allows me to visualize how strengthening a muscle group can improve a particular movement,” says Anita Di Criscio, a second-year student specializing in clinical exercise physiology. “It also permits me to bring back questions and practical comments to the classroom.”

Moreover, floor monitors accumulate the valuable, practical hours required to become certified personal trainers. The Canadian Society of Exercise Physiologists requires a minimum of 25 hours of experience from individuals applying for certification.

Some third-year floor monitors are already certified. They can work with members of Le Centre to correct workout techniques, and give tips on how to maximize training. Beginning in October, certified floor monitors will be invited to participate in the individual conditioning programs that will be available to Le Centre members.

As the PERFORM Centre begins to roll out research and community programs later this fall, monitors will play an important role in informing Le Centre members of the activities taking place on the conditioning and rehabilitation floor.

“Our health and rehabilitation programs will be aimed at people living with chronic disease, as well as those wishing to lower their risk of developing health complications,” says Lowe. “Floor monitors will ensure clients are aware of the programming and that members of Le Centre understand the needs of program participants.”
 
Related links:
•    Le Centre
•    The PERFORM Centre
•    Department of Exercise Science


 



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