As personal fitness trainers move into the mainstream, physicians are increasingly recommending them to patients as part of ongoing health programs. Personal trainers provide personalized fitness programs, including exercise prescriptions and guidelines and nutrition information. The article explains how physicians can find qualified trainers for…

Research indicates that increased strength leads to improved balance and functional mobility and that nearly every senior patient can benefit from basic resistance training. The article provides guidelines for physicians on prescribing resistance training and for patients on increasing strength. (SM)

Exercise can help decrease pain and improve function in people with rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis. Physicians must provide individualized, realistic, enjoyable exercise programs that help affected joints, build fitness, and maximize patient compliance. Physicians must also provide appropriate follow-up care, adjusting the exercise program…

Presents five articles on children's fitness and health: "Relaxation: Every Child's Right to Simply Be" (Patrice Thomas and Wendy Shepherd); "Infant Massage" (Carolyn Oleson); "Fitness and the Young Child" (James M. Poole); "Partners in Health: Helping Families Advocate for Their Children's Health Care" (Karen Sokal-Gutierrez); and "Preventing…

The aim of this article is to provide teachers with interesting and intelligible ways of interpreting fitness test results to students. Also shown are ways that fitness testing can be used to diagnose fitness needs, provide a basis for exercise prescription, help monitor progress, and individualize fitness education concepts. (IAH)

This paper describes five key trends in the ways the rules for education are changing, the potential implications of the changes, and challenges for those promoting school health education. (SM)

Suggestions are provided for parents and teachers cooperatively planning an exciting drug and alcohol prevention program, particularly geared toward senior high school students. Activities include a video contest, drinking-party alternatives, awareness weeks, posters, film festivals, and parenting sessions. (CB)

Team physicians who establish rapport with athletes and have basic knowledge about Hunan Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) are uniquely positioned to counsel athletes about HIV transmission. The article explains what issues the team physicians should discuss and encourages physicians to maintain an open forum.…

Asserts that there are growing concerns among Native-American communities regarding chronic health problems, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Provides health resources specific to particular tribes or regions, which can be applied to other indigenous people. Lists programs and organizations, databases, videos, Internet sites,…

The American Academy of Pediatrics policy statement on participation of athletes with human immunodeficiency virus suggests they be allowed to participate in competitive sports until disease transmission is found to occur in sport settings. The article discusses physician and coach roles and recommends precautions regarding body fluids and…

Exercise-induced asthma (EIA) affects 12-15% of the population. This comprehensive guide suggests that nearly all individuals with EIA can be active, highlighting both pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic management of asthma and stressing the importance of rigorous patient education in controlling underlying asthma and EIA. (SM)

Intentional social support is crucial in reducing the risk of poor health and diminished educational attainment for adolescents facing various challenges and risks. The article examines ingredients of successful adolescent social support programs, notes supportive school and community environments, and looks at various programs designed to support…