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Seasoned (road salt, pipe tobacco) writer and editor with well-earned scars from a lengthy roster of industries, including finance, pharma, and sports medicine. I’m known for my skills as an interviewer, ghostwriter, gaffe predictor, and keen-eyed editor. Overall, I'm interested in people who are interested in things. Happy to chat during PST/PDT hours: 917-727-0411.
Highlight Reel
One on one with Jonathan Finnoff, chief medical officer of the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee
An intimate profile of former Seattle Seahawks Head Team Physician Stan Herring
The editorial team at “ACSM’s Health & Fitness Journal” enjoyed my profile of Mayo Clinic physician Michael Joyner enough to kindly reprint it in their “Celebrate Success” column (volume 27, issue 6). Displayed here with permission from publisher Wolters Kluwer.
If you've ever wondered about the impact of the ACSM Foundation, look no further than how it's supported the work of PhD candidate Mai Wageh. Based at McMaster University’s Exercise Metabolism Research Group, Wageh studies sex-based differences in biological processes . . .
It’s not every day you get to interview someone who’s worked with Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski. But the other day I did. Fred Brennan, DO, FACSM, looks the part. There is a genial solidity about him, alongside a healthy I’ve-been-a-competitive-athlete glow that’s apparent even through the questionable medium of Zoom . . .
Alexis Bhagat fought her way into sports medicine. The 32-year-old clinical exercise physiologist is a true Millennial: like many of us, she went to the mat, so to speak, on an extracurricular activity. Specifically karate, which blossomed into an impressive athletic career . . .
You won’t find a more deserving winner than Parker Spencer. The 33-year-old took home USA Triathlon’s Olympic Coach of the Year Award in 2022 — the youngest person to do so.
Long-Form Copywriting
Tony Babb is easy to talk to. There is a pleasant, subtle upward lilt in his voice, perhaps an artefact from a Kentucky upbringing, although you might be able to lay some of it at the feet of his having worked at University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center for the last 30 years . . .
ACSM Certified Professionals of the Year tend to spend most of their time in overdrive, and Michael Stack is no different. When the 2025 winner and I sat down to chat, I tossed a couple questions his way about his hobbies and interests, and he admitted that his work is pretty much his life. But in a fulfilling rather than draining way. And Stack shares that since at least age 18, he’s lived by a consistent principle: Figure out how to be of service.
When you speak with Louise Valentine (MPH, CHES, CSCS, ACSM-CPT, ACSM-EP, EIM II, BCTMB) for any length of time, you begin to understand that every aspect of her life, no matter how apparently distinct or unique, is remarkably — and admirably — aligned toward a singular goal: growth.
You see the teacher in Li Li Ji, Ph.D., FACSM, almost immediately. He has a gentle presence and soft tone, but there is also a glint in his eye that suggests the unending and infectious excitement he has for his field. Such a thing is vital in an instructor. Vital too in a researcher who wants to work collaboratively. His enthusiasm draws you in. His cadence begins to quicken. You are compelled not only by his answers but by the questions he believes said answers in turn uncover.
My sample size is still relatively small, but the more long-distance runners I interview for ACSM, the clearer it seems that endurance sports draw in people who, ironically, take life at a sprint. Louise Valentine and Dr. Michael Joyner come to mind. And now Brian Cleven, ACSM’s 2024 Certified Professional of the Year (CPOY), joins the ranks . . .
To paint a picture — the first word that comes to mind when I try to describe Carl Foster is affable. I immediately question myself: isn’t that language a little elevated? A little highfalutin? But upon reflection, the word fits. Foster’s demeanor combines . . .
ACSM’s incoming CEO, Katie Feltman, CAE, is not a new face at the college. Many members of the ACSM family will have worked with her in her prior roles as director of publishing, chief content officer and chief operating officer — and more recently, and fittingly, as interim CEO. But there’s plenty more to know about Feltman, and to that end I sat down with her to chat a bit about her life and her plans moving forward.
Margot Putukian is the chief medical officer of Major League Soccer, team physician for the US Soccer Women’s National Teams and the former director of athletic medicine and head team physician at Princeton University. She’s also a current committee member on the NFL’s General Medical Committee, a senior advisor for their Head, Neck & Spine Committee and a past member of the ACSM Board of Directors . . .
Kathy Myburgh, Ph.D., FACSM, is a distinguished professor and the South African Research Chair in Skeletal Muscle Physiology, Biology and Biotechnology at Stellenbosch University and leader of the Muscle Research Group, which specializes in muscle damage and repair. The 2023 recipient of a Citation Award from the American College of Sports Medicine was nominated for the award by Bruce Gladden, Ph.D., FACSM.
It is readily apparent that Jill Kanaley possesses a relentless curiosity. She is driven from one set of questions to the next, as if each discrete constellation of ideas is merely one side of a Venn diagram and that, once she’s seen the overlapping section, she is instinctively drawn to find the second circle. A professor and interim chair of the University of Missouri-Colombia’s Department of Nutrition and Exercise Physiology, Kanaley actually got her start by . . .
The American College of Sports Medicine® is saddened to announce that Steve N. Blair, PED, FACSM, passed away on Oct. 6, 2023. He was 84 years old. The response from the sports medicine and exercise community has been profound. Blair was a giant in the field of exercise epidemiology . . .
Shawn Kane, MD, FACSM, is the outgoing editor-in-chief of “Current Sports Medicine Reports” (“CSMR”), ACSM’s monthly e-journal for clinicians. This year marks his eighth in the role, the close of his second four-year term. And since “CSMR editors are limited to two terms, ACSM’s Publications Committee is hard at work narrowing down candidates for the next EIC, who will be named at the 2025 ACSM Annual Meeting in Atlanta.
When you speak with Jorge Franchella, your main takeaway is his enthusiasm — enthusiasm for his work, for the conversation you’re having, for ACSM, for life in general. He has a vivacity about him, a joie de vivre that is infectious. The Argentine physician is likewise loquacious, and my job as an interviewer becomes fairly simple . . .
Craig Crandall has an easygoing confidence about him, one that doubtless stems from decades of research experience in his field. (There is a quiet confidence in those who know their work well.) He likewise has the air of someone who’s long been an educator, and he had no trouble entertaining the questions of this lay writer with both kindness and patience.
Blog/Short-Form Copywriting
The benefits of physical activity, even at low levels, far outweigh the cardiovascular risks for most people. But Murphy’s Law is always peering around the corner — what if the worst happens? We need to have a plan in place. Fortunately, ACSM’s consensus statement on the topic provides fitness professionals with important background information and a number of steps and strategies.
Cycling is an ideal form of transportation and recreation: More physically engaging than driving and far more mechanically efficient than walking or running, it’s the perfect balance of convenience and exercise. It’s better for our health, and better for the environment . . .
Antronette (Toni) Yancey, M.D., was born in Kansas City, Kansas, in 1957. She studied biochemistry and molecular biology at Northwestern University before attending Duke University for her M.D. and going on to pursue a long and successful career in public health and public health education. Dr. Yancey received a posthumous ACSM Citation Award in 2014 . . .
ACSM is excited to announce a fresh new look for “Exercise and Sport Sciences Reviews” (“ESSR”), thanks to the diligent work of the publication team and longtime ACSM designer Dave Brewer. The new cover made its debut on the January 2023 issue. ESSR had its start in 1972 as annual hardcover volume and in 2000 transitioned to a quarterly journal, a publication schedule it retains to this day. The latest redesign took into account extensive reader surveys and competitor analyses.
Since November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month, I thought it would be appropriate to discuss some of the more recent guidance that’s come across ACSM’s editorial desk regarding epilepsy and physical activity, namely the findings laid out in this 2021 publication in Current Sports Medicine Reports. The topic hits close to home, quite literally — in my twenties, I rented a house with an old friend and grad school classmate who’d . . .
You never know when you’ll need to use your emergency training. That’s what ACSM member and Noblesville, Indiana, Orangetheory Fitness Head Coach Tony Maloney was reminded of in late October when a patron visiting from out of state collapsed suddenly in a mid-morning strength class.
Researchers: If you’re wondering whether it’s worth applying for an ACSM Foundation research grant, consider Dr. Jenna Gillen’s story. Gillen, an assistant professor in the Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education at the University of Toronto, leads an exercise metabolism research lab. When she applied for and was subsequently awarded an ACSM Research Endowment grant, she was at a critical point her career . . .
Rafael Alamilla’s affiliation with ACSM’s Leadership & Diversity Training Program (LDTP) began with an interesting coincidence. An IU President’s Doctoral Fellow in Indiana University’s Department of Health Sciences, Alamilla had heard about ACSM’s LDTP somewhat by chance — whether it was from ACSM social media, an email, or some other communication, he can’t exactly recall. But it appeared in his orbit, it seemed like a fruitful opportunity, and he emailed his advisor to . . .
Alzheimer’s disease is “an irreversible, progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills, and, eventually, the ability to carry out the simplest tasks”; it is also the most common type of dementia in older adults, representing 60-80% of dementia cases. Approximately 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease . . .
Cardiovascular health is, if you’ll excuse the pun, at the heart of physical fitness. Appropriate, then, during American Heart Month to have a look at the ways we can monitor our hearts as well as those of our clients. For clients, getting ahold of an at-home blood pressure monitor can be a good start, as well as considering a smartwatch or similar wearable that charts heartrate and related data. This may seem like an unnecessary step for the healthy gymgoer, but keeping track of . . .
We’re well into the holiday season, and maybe you’re scrambling to find the perfect gifts for friends and family. Uh oh. Fortunately, there are plenty of fitness tools and accessories out there that might fit the bill, and at a range of prices . . .
Discover how an ACSM Annual Meeting presentation sparked a successful MD-PhD collaboration, advancing research and highlighting the power of networking in sports medicine and exercise science.
In the new year, fitness pros often see their facilities and schedules inundated with people looking to make a change. In the right conditions, and under proper supervision, a resolutioner really can shift the direction of their life. But under the wrong conditions, inexperienced (and even experienced) exercisers, athletes and recreational enthusiasts can get into serious trouble, especially if they’re overly motivated and willing to just “push through.” Beyond the routine ways a novice...
As we brush the dust of 2023 from our shoulders and look around, wondering what the heck we should be doing with ourselves in ’24, a beacon appears: On Jan. 2, ACSM released the results of the 2024 Worldwide Fitness Trends: Future Directions of the Health and Fitness Industry survey, and we picked up on some interesting signals . . .
As February comes to a close, I have to ask — have you kept up with your fitness resolutions? We’re in the period where people tend to fall off, after all. If you’re reading this, you’re probably not the kind of person who needs to make a New Years’ resolution to get in shape. But maybe you have some additional goals, like hitting a new squat PR or switching up your routine to include more cardio. And then there are your clients . . .
ACSM, in partnership with Exercise Connection, offers the Autism Exercise Specialist Certificate, a unique course and credential that gives you the skills and credibility you need to work with an important and underserved population. ACSM is all about collaboration, teamwork and creating win-win scenarios. And the relationship between exercise professionals and autistic clients . . .
The American College of Sports Medicine has been a pillar of the sports medicine and exercise science community since its founding in 1954. In fact, one could say it’s more cornerstone than pillar — much of the field was built upon the foundation ACSM established. But it’s 2024. (Cue “[current year]” joke.) Alongside a celebration of its 70th(!) anniversary, ACSM has launched a refreshed brand image, including a new logo and set of striking colorways.
Autism spectrum disorder, or ASD, represents a suite of conditions and symptoms that vary from individual to individual. But broadly, as defined in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statical Manual of Mental Illnesses and Disorders (DSM-5), ASD comprises “persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction across multiple contexts. Those diagnosed with autism must also present with “restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities . . .”
Ghostwriting: Messages from the University of Iowa’s Office of the President
Welcome back. I hope you had a fun and restful break. It’s good to have everyone on campus again, as I could use your collective wisdom and energy. Many of you have already read that the University of Iowa will face challenges this semester because of a reduction in funding from the state government. This cut, in the current fiscal year, is not without precedent. But though we have weathered setbacks like this before, we must make clear to the citizens and representatives of Iowa . . .
We must build our future at the University of Iowa on our heritage of strengths. That is particularly true for our mission of teaching and learning-how we provide the highest-quality educational experience for our students and how we most effectively train tomorrow's teachers and educational . . .
At our May commencement, more than 4,900 students joined the ranks of our vibrant, already 270,000-strong alumni community. These most recent graduates have embarked on a new phase of their lives, one of professional achievement and community leadership—one we have prepared them for with a world-class education. We must keep our promise to deliver that same excellent education to subsequent generations of University of Iowa students . . .
On April 12, the University of Iowa will enact a five-month moratorium on campus projects in an effort to defer cash spending. The deferral is necessary because the UI must close the funding gap caused by the newly announced late-in-the-year state funding cut of $5.49 million . . .
Welcome back to campus for what will be a wonderful spring semester filled with many opportunities to engage, learn, and create. This past fall, we’ve had several tremendous occasions to celebrate, including a coveted NASA fellowship for fourth-year physics graduate student Jake McCoy; the election of another member of our faculty, Dale Abel, to the National Academies; and a season for the ages on the football field . . .
This first month at the University of Iowa has been defined by engagement and understanding. People are passionate about the university—its mission and its future. The collective effort to achieve and to address challenges can be seen in our students, faculty, and staff, including Jeffrey Ding, our newest Rhodes Scholar and the UI’s 19th student to receive this prestigious award since its founding in 1904 . . .
The University of Iowa has long been the home of cutting-edge scholarship, research, and creative expression. From the health sciences to the digital humanities, Hawkeyes have always pushed the envelope, improving and enriching people’s lives. Last week the university announced a statistic that represented a lot of hard work from many of our faculty, staff, and students . . .
I’m continually awed by the research our faculty does. From making breakthroughs in the vision and hearing sciences to learning about how participation in an online community can help people quit smoking, researchers at the University of Iowa are constantly making meaningful change . . .
Traditionally, we think of graduation as a time of celebration, a rite of passage that opens up the road of the future to our students, and it certainly is that. We recognize and celebrate the achievements of our students during their time with us, and we look forward to their future accomplishments. But in the present moment, we can’t in good faith view the future with rose-tinted glasses. The journey our soon-to-be graduates will be embarking on is a difficult one . . .
Over the past 20 years, Iowa has experienced a generational disinvestment in public higher education. In 1998, the budget of the state of Iowa was $4.36 billion, there were 27,871 students on the University of Iowa campus, and the appropriation for the university was $223 million. Fast forward to 2018 and the state’s budget is $7.26 billion, there are 33,564 students on the UI campus, and the appropriation for the university is only $216 million. Over two decades, the budget . . .
Another new academic year begins at the University of Iowa, though under circumstances we have never experienced before. The COVID-19 pandemic and recent derecho has presented an extraordinary number of challenges to members of the Hawkeye community—and to the day-to-day operations of the campus itself. But rest assured that Iowa staff have been diligently preparing the past several months for . . .
For much of this country’s history, higher education and many of its critical components—access to texts and literary tradition, instruction in critical thinking, a sense of how we got from the past to the present—was and were reserved for the wealthy. Many fields of study, and the social and financial opportunities they opened up, simply weren’t available to the average citizen. With some notable exceptions, if your parents weren’t well off, higher education was probably beyond your reach . . .
Since its inception, the University of Iowa has been home to hardworking people who seek to improve the way universities do things. Founded just 52 days after Iowa was admitted into the Union, the State University of Iowa embarked upon a string of firsts. The university established the first colleges of law and dentistry west of the Mississippi. It founded the first coeducational medical school and the first college-level department of education in the country. It was the first to . . .
As anyone who has been in Iowa City during spring commencement knows, the energy that exists around campus is palpable. Even though things are largely quiet during this very strange year, Mary and I have enjoyed seeing a few students and parents (safely) taking pictures in caps and gowns on the Old Capitol steps. When the world is so suddenly and completely different, things that seemed familiar take on new and unexpected meanings. These simple moments of joy, excitement, and normalcy . . .
And so we begin another exciting fall semester at Iowa! Returning students, I know you likely share the same sense of anticipation that I do for the days and weeks ahead—reaching new milestones and honing novel skills. Faculty and staff, I know you’re looking forward to a semester of innovative teaching, forward-thinking administration and support, and groundbreaking research. Your successes in the lab, library, office, and classroom never cease to amaze me.
Over the past few days, I’ve had the privilege of meeting with students and families as they embark on an exciting year at the University of Iowa. I’ve reconnected with friends on faculty and staff who are ready to engage, enlighten, and serve our students. For those of us returning, we are comforted by the knowledge that this is a welcoming place, a diverse and dynamic institution strengthened by our differences . . .
With daylight hours short and cold weather well upon us, it’s once again time to bid farewell to a phenomenal group of Hawkeyes. While most of our students are looking forward to a well-earned winter break, our fall graduates are instead considering where the next chapter of their lives will take them. Fitting, then, that the days will soon be lengthening: With a group of new graduates entering into it, the wider world brightens . . .
It is with great pride that we write this end-of-semester message to our campus community. It goes without saying that the past year has been difficult: We have reached the point where commenting on the myriad hardships of the pandemic feels flat. It is now just a fact, something we’ve had to endure. And yet, as we congratulate a new class of Iowa graduates on their achievements, we must remember the astounding way this campus reacted in the face adversity.
The end of the fall semester brings with it a whole host of feelings, from the relief that finals are over to the sadness graduates experience as they prepare to leave the UI and go out into the world. But graduates also leave with a sense of pride in their accomplishments, pride that all of us—family members, friends, faculty, staff, administrators—share in as we watch these talented people receive their degrees and begin their journeys.
There are only so many ways to say the we are living in unprecedented times. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected seemingly every part of life. Likewise, injustice and political turmoil have gripped much of the country. Yet in the face of such seemingly insurmountable obstacles, our community has come together to welcome new students and to continue the critical missions of our university. Though the semester has only just begun, the path that we are on . . .
Graduates, as you begin your next chapter, remember that one of the most important contributions you can make is to your community. More than 5,000 of you are about to take your first steps into a future filled with both uncertainty and opportunity, and I know you are prepared to face that uncertainty and seize those opportunities because of the strong and compassionate Hawkeye community you’ve come from. Now, as you find yourself taking on a new job or moving to a new city, the important...
Visual Copywriting
The fitness industry is a growing field — earning an ACSM/NCHPAD Inclusive Fitness Specialist Certificate will separate you from the competition and give you the tools to assist critically underserved populations. Learn about the prerequisites for earning this certificate, how to earn it, and what career opportunities open up once its earned.
The main nonprogressive brain injuries you’re likely to encounter are stroke, traumatic brain injury and cerebral palsy. Each comes with unique root causes, considerations and outcomes, and clients with different conditions will benefit from different exercise programs.
Cancer is the No. 2 cause of death in the United States, but physical activity before, during and after a cancer diagnosis has been linked to better health outcomes.
Anaerobic exercise is a great way to build and maintain muscle. It can also help clients improve some of the functional movements associated with their disability. Here’s how to build a successful anaerobic exercise program.
Trainers tend to be highly motivated go-getters, but it’s important to let your clients take the wheel when setting their goals. Help them navigate, but let them steer.
Assessing and training clients with physical disabilities requires you to not only understand the ways the body moves but also the ways in which certain conditions restrict and affect movement.
Clear communication, and some thoughtful preparation, can make all the difference for clients with visual, auditory or speech impairments.
Research in exercise science confirms that physical activity can help prevent type 2 diabetes, as well as help patients manage its effects.
The ACSM American Fitness Index® charts the health and activity levels of the 100 biggest cities in the U.S. using measurable categories called fitness indicators drawn from sources like the CDC and U.S. Census Bureau.
Life is busy, stressful and unpredictable — particularly during the holiday season. Practice all five of these suggestions and you’ll find you have more focused and intentional time than you thought to tackle work tasks, home life and more.
Every fitness facility should be equipped with an AED — and a staff that knows not only how to use it but where to find it. Use this helpful poster to advertise the location of your AED.
Research shows that resistance exercise may be as effective as aerobic exercise for improving many facets of health. However, wile roughly 50% of people meet aerobic exercise guidelines, less than one-third meet resistance exercise requirements.
Don’t just focus on what you can teach your client. Learning to ask the right questions — even unexpected ones — can help you collaborate on more nuanced and useful answers. ACSM & Wellcoaches have partnered to help you build meaningful connections with your clients.
When meeting with new clients looking to lose weight or get in better shape, you may find that many are dealing with internal negativity and self-doubt. It’s important to know how to help them through these emotional barriers, improving their chances of a successful fitness journey.
Fitness professionals and medical professionals provide care to clients and patients everyday, as do the thousands of others caring for family members, friends and their communities. When you’re so focused on providing care for others, you may lose sight of caring for yourself. Practice these self-care strategies for caregivers, developed with partner Wellcoaches.
This infographic, developed with ACSM partner Wellcoaches, describes the three types of empathy and five ways to incorporate empathy into your work as a fitness professional, health coach, or medical practitioner.
Adults 18-50 with obesity have an increased risk of developing osteoarthritis. Fortunately, regular physical activity – through a combination of aerobic and strength training – can help protect against osteoarthritis by increasing muscle strength and cardiovascular health; improving body composition and joint support; preserving muscle mass; and reducing inflammation, joint stiffness and pain.
Web Editing
Psychologist Carl Rogers believed that every person is naturally inclined to grow in a positive direction, not only for themselves but for society and their community. Rogers therefore suggested that it’s unhelpful and unnecessary to center a coaching or therapeutic relationship on telling, directing, and prescribing. When such relationships are grounded instead in authenticity, warmth, and empathetic understanding, patients are more likely to grow — and to stick with that growth.
The gavel officially passed at the 2025 ACSM Annual Meeting when Carrie Jaworski, MD, FACSM became the 69th president of ACSM.
The debate over the best methods for concussion recovery has been a key challenge to sports medicine providers over the last several decades. While rapid return to play, particularly when still symptomatic, is obviously inappropriate, the early recommendations suggested complete rest. This is sometimes referred to as “cocoon therapy,” where the patient is instructed to stay in a dark room and avoid electronics, reading and other stimuli . . .
In developed countries, the life expectancy of adults has increased dramatically over the past century. This is largely due to decreases in smoking and reductions in infectious disease and cardiovascular disease brought about by modern medicine. However, due to a rise in labor-saving devices and electronic entertainment, many have suggested that we have engineered much of the physical activity (PA) out of our lives. In fact . . .
To a varying extent, most human characteristics are heritable. The genetic component of physical activity behavior and many related physiological phenotypes has been established as polygenic. This means that variation in these phenotypes is explained by the contributions of hundreds or thousands of genetic variants, each of which has a small effect size. Advances . . .
On International Women’s Day, the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) celebrates the achievements and legacy of Barbara Drinkwater, Ph.D., FACSM, who led the field in its recognition and understanding of female athletes’ unique needs and experiences.
An appropriate and individualized dose of regular aerobic exercise is recommended to promote and preserve cardiorespiratory health throughout life. The exercise dose is defined by four ingredients: frequency, intensity, time and type of exercise. Among these, intensity is the most elusive term of the exercise “prescription.” It . . .
This ACSM blog offers guidance for parents on how exercise benefits children with autism, including strategies for incorporating physical activity into routines to improve health and well-being.
Neuroplasticity is the ability of the brain to physiologically change due to our experiences. There is accumulating evidence for the benefits of a single session of aerobic exercise to enhance motor learning and neuroplasticity in young adults. Stationary cycling exercise performed immediately before or after skilled motor practice enhances motor learning that involves movements of [...]
Carrie Jaworski, M.D., FACSM, was voted ACSM's 2024 president-elect and will officially step into the role after the 2024 ACSM Annual Meeting. Get to know her and her vision for the future of ACSM.
The 2018 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans notes that there is no obvious "best amount" of physical activity and no evidence of increased risk, even among those that engage in high intensity activities. However, vigorous physical activity may acutely increase the risk of heart attack and sudden cardiac death in some individuals.
Natural killer (NK) cells, which are found in the blood, are crucial in the prevention and treatment of cancer. They function by eliminating malignant tumors in an innate immune manner. NK cells express an array of activating and inhibitory receptors that recognize cancer cells without the need for immunization.
During strenuous exercise, the neuromuscular system is repeatedly stressed, causing impairments to occur at various potential sites along the brain-to-muscle pathway. These perturbations cause a reduction in the ability of our muscles to generate force, which can increase our sense of effort, cause us to slow down and reduce our capacity to perform high intensity [...]
This blog post explores the effects of alcohol on exercise performance, highlighting how alcohol consumption can negatively impact recovery, muscle growth, and overall fitness, with a focus on binge drinking.
In 2022 we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the HERITAGE (HEalth, RIsk factors, exercise Training And GEnetics) Family Study. The May issue of Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise® (MSSE) highlights a multitude of the more than 200 publications and other dissemination products from data generated from this groundbreaking and important research program.
This ACSM blog explores how incorporating Eastern mindfulness movements, like yoga and Tai Chi, into exercise routines can support mental and physical health, especially in post-pandemic recovery.
In the last decade, various forms of interval training have gained popularity. In fact, high-intensity interval training has been in the top five in ACSM's Annual Worldwide Survey of Fitness Trends since 2014. Sprint interval training has also gained popularity in recent years.
Mental, physical and emotional self care may look different when dealing with the ripple effects of a global pandemic.
Skeletal muscle is the engine that drives human health and performance and is influenced by modifiable healthy lifestyle behaviors (i.e., nutrition and exercise) and non-modifiable factors (i.e., sex and age). It is well-established that resistance exercise stimulates the synthesis of skeletal muscle protein (especially the force-generating myofibrillar fraction) for up to 48 hours.
Obesity is a primary etiology of many adverse health outcomes. The body has two primary types of fat tissue: subcutaneous fat and visceral fat. Subcutaneous fat is the adipose tissue that lies below the surface of the skin, whereas visceral fat is the adipose tissue that lines the internal organs.
Explore the daily routine of a group exercise instructor in this ACSM blog. Learn about the challenges, rewards, and essential skills required for leading dynamic fitness classes.
Physical activity is recognized as one of the key healthy lifestyle behaviors that reduces the risk of developing dementia late in life. Physical activity requires increased rates of respiration. Thus, in areas with high levels of air pollution, physical activity may increase exposure to particulate matter and gases that are linked with higher risk of [...]
Cardiometabolic risk describes a collection of factors known to increase the likelihood of cardiovascular disease. It includes lipid and glucose metabolism as well as adiposity and hypertension. We know that being more physically active is associated with lower cardiometabolic risk. However, it is not clear whether more specific or tailored physical activity guidance can be [...]
Many of our functional daily and exercise activities include both concentric (shortening) and eccentric (lengthening) muscle contractions (actions). However, eccentric-only or accentuated eccentric contractions are also commonly performed in resistance exercises. It is well known that exercises consisting of high-intensity and/or a large number of eccentric contractions induce delayed-onset muscle soreness and prolonged decreases in [...]
Technological advancements in the past 60 years have led to an increasingly sedentary lifestyle. Changes in transportation, communication, the workplace and domestic entertainment have fostered environments in occupational, home and social settings that now demand or encourage sedentary behavior throughout most of the day. In recent years, we have become more aware of the negative [...]
The movement to recognize exercise as medicine has incited interest in personalized exercise prescription while simultaneously exposing weaknesses in the existing exercise science literature. As a field, it is acknowledged that differences in an individual's phenotype (observed characteristics) and genetic makeup will contribute to a marked variability in response to standardized exercise.
Learn how diet may help athletes with ADHD by promoting stable energy levels and reducing inflammation. Nutrition expert Nancy Clark suggests foods like omega-3-rich options and lean proteins.
Childhood obesity is an epidemic affecting over 340 million youth worldwide, with rates continuing to increase each year. Importantly, childhood obesity does not occur in isolation, as rates of physical inactivity are also increasing, with children and teens being less physically active now than in the past.
Gastrointestinal (GI) discomfort can occur as an unfortunate byproduct of physical exercise. While this phenomenon has been thoroughly outlined in endurance athletes, only one study to date has measured and reported increased markers of GI injury following resistance exercise that coincided with decreased nutrient absorption.
Running is a popular form of exercise due to its health benefits and low economic cost; however, the prevalence of running-related injuries is on the rise. With most running injuries classified as overuse injuries due to excessive, repetitive loading, clinicians and researchers are looking to develop measures of this loading to assess a runner's injury [...]
Alzheimer's disease and related dementias are debilitating conditions leading to impaired cognitive processes and worsening physical functioning. They place significant burden on caregivers and health care systems. Roughly 15 million cases of cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease in the U.S. are projected by 2060. While there are no medical treatments to delay Alzheimer's disease progression, [...]
How do you move forward when a client is expressing ambivalence toward behavior change? Learn how to effectively work with ambivalence and support client autonomy while working toward a positive outcome.
Patients with sport-related concussion have traditionally been advised to employ strict physical and cognitive rest until all of their symptoms resolve, i.e., until they become asymptomatic. This "cocoon therapy" was based largely upon animal research showing that early uncontrolled physical activity delayed recovery from simulated concussion.
Fatigability is not a new concept in the exercise physiology realm. Researchers have long paired physical activity measures with ratings of perceived exertion or contractions of isolated muscle groups during tasks to quantify self-reported or muscle fatigability. Of late, the term "fatigability" has evolved and is widely used in aging research to represent a whole-body trait of [...]
There is no doubt that motorsport drivers are serious athletes, and there is a need for increased presence of sports medicine teams within motorsports. Dr. Ferguson shares the work that he and others have done in this field and identifies areas of need in the care of motorsport athletes.
Throughout the lifespan, maximum hand grip strength reflects general health and vigor and is therefore commonly suggested to be a biomarker of aging. Although aging results in declines in muscle strength, individual strength changes follow a predictable pattern, as shown by strong correlations between measurements carried out decades apart.
The positive effects of aerobic exercise training on skeletal muscle metabolism are well recognized. Exercise also leads to beneficial metabolic adaptations in other organs, including the brain, liver, kidneys and adipose tissue. However, the effects of exercise on immune cell metabolism are largely unknown. Immune cells that circulate throughout the body are exposed to exercise-associated [...]
Engagement in physical exercise has shown widespread benefits on cardiovascular, physical, emotional and cognitive health in older adults. However, initiating and sustaining an exercise routine over the long term (e.g., six months or more) is incredibly challenging. Our historical understanding of the factors that determine engagement in physical exercise comes from psychological and psychosocial theories, [...]
In our Studies of Twin Responses to Understand Exercise THerapy (STRUETH) trial, we recruited monozygotic and dizygotic twin pairs and supervised them through three months of endurance training and three months of resistance exercise training. Each twin pair exercised together, at matched exercise prescriptions, and all subjects undertook both forms of exercise.
There is no doubt that childhood and adolescence are decisive periods to acquire healthy lifestyle behaviors, like being physically active and participating in a variety of sports. When youngsters acquire an active lifestyle, there is a greater probability they will maintain it throughout their lives.
Distance running is popular due to its health benefits, low cost and accessibility. However, it is associated with high rates of overuse injuries. Particularly, female cross-country runners have some of the highest rates of bone-stress injuries, which include stress reactions and stress fractures. Poor bone health is a contributing factor in some athletes and can [...]
Cancer-related fatigue (C-rF) is a debilitating symptom that affects around one-third of people for months or years after cancer treatment. While the etiology of C-rF remains uncertain, it has been demonstrated that cancer survivors with C-rF display impaired exercise tolerance compared with those without C-rF, with the degree of exercise intolerance associated with chronic fatigue [...]
Over the last four decades, obesity has become one of the major public health problems in the U.S. Due to its prevalence (>40% of the adult population are obese) there is an increased risk of comorbidities, especially Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Although weight loss is difficult, it is well established that weight loss [...]
Austin Cooper discusses his journey to becoming an ACSM Certified exercise professional.
Body fat is essential for health; fat tissue not only stores energy but is an endocrine organ that synthesizes and secretes hormones (including estrogen and testosterone) important for healthy growth and maturation. Excess fat mass during childhood and adolescence tends to track into adulthood and is associated with adverse health outcomes.
Vitamin D is widely known to play a role in musculoskeletal and immune health, and a deficiency is associated with a wide spectrum of disease states and impaired physical performance. Vitamin D is mainly synthesized by skin exposure to sunlight ultraviolet B radiation and only a small amount (~20%) of vitamin D is available from [...]
Approximately 80% of jobs in the United States are predominantly sedentary. Sedentary work time is also increasing worldwide. National and global policy guidelines recommend breaking up sedentary work time to improve population health and reduce premature mortality. However, policies and job demands requiring workers to remain at their desks, along with limited funds and space for exercise equipment, can [...]
There is an abundance of evidence demonstrating that high levels of cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) are associated with decreased risk for early mortality, chronic disease and some infectious diseases, as well as lower health care costs. The evidence is so strong that the American Heart Association suggested CRF be considered a clinical vital sign that is regularly measured [...]
There are a variety of resources that exist to advise individuals on best practices for exercising throughout pregnancy. International evidence-based health guidelines typically recommend at least 150 minutes/week of moderate-intensity physical activity in those without contraindications during pregnancy. While these recommendations guide physical activity during pregnancy in the general population, they are not developed - [...]
"Garrett, I'm too old to strength train." If I had a penny for every time I heard this statement, I'd be a rich man! Really, I would. More recently: "Dr. Kellar, aren't some people too old to do strength training?" What? No! A person is never - yes, never - too old to strength train!
Persistent pain is among the most common adverse effects to breast cancer and its treatments. It affects 25-60% of patients and can linger for several years as a source of considerable physical and psychological distress. Among other things, pain after breast cancer is a primary source of upper limb dysfunction and has been associated with [...]
Boost your career as a student! This ACSM blog highlights five reasons college students should pursue an ACSM personal trainer certification, from building skills to income potential.
"Painful feelings are, by their very nature, temporary. They will weaken over time as long as we don't prolong or amplify them through resistance or avoidance. The only way to eventually free ourselves from debilitating pain, therefore, is to be with it as it is. The only way out is through."
An internet search of "anti-obesity medications, GLP-1, or weight loss medications" will land over 180 million hits in under a second. The surge in the popularity of obesity medications is fostered by various media outlets (news, social, marketing, research) adding to increased patient demand. Trilliant Health/STAT reported that in 2022, ~3.6 million Americans were taking [...]
The liver plays a crucial role in numerous metabolic processes necessary to leading a healthy life, including those essential to metabolism, such as storing energy and regulating blood sugar. Exercise has been shown to improve liver health by reducing fat in the liver, improving insulin sensitivity, reducing inflammation, boosting the immune system and improving mental [...]
Muscle weakness is difficult to treat after a traumatic joint injury as it stems from a multifaceted interplay of neurological and morphological processes that disrupt the muscle's communication and regulation. Data from a large clinical database showed that four out of five patients who engage in anterior cruciate ligament rehabilitation (one of the most common therapeutic programs) [...]
I just found out that Thursday the 30th of March is "Take a Walk in the Park Day" here in the U.S., and although it sort of sounds like a "Go jump in a lake day," I have to admit - on reflection - that the founders of this holiday are on to something good.
On June 2, Jonathan Drezner, M.D., director of the University of Washington's Center for Sports Cardiology, delivered the 2023 John R. Sutton Clinical Lecture at ACSM's annual meeting covering sudden cardiac arrest in athletes. Learn how to recognize and respond to these not uncommon events by viewing the video from Dr. Drezner's lecture below and [...]
ACSM's publishing partner, Wolters Kluwer, provides insights on how the journal impact factor has been calculated over time, as the 2022 JIFs are released.
This blog explores the pros and cons of hiring a financial advisor for sports medicine professionals. It highlights how financial expertise can support long-term planning, but also addresses potential drawbacks.
The Good Athletes today have a variety of cryotherapy options available to them. Cold water immersion (CWI) is the most studied cryotherapy application and the most commonly used modality for athletes at all competition levels in post-recovery regimens.
Higher levels of physical activity are unquestionably important for maintaining good physical and cognitive health. Surprisingly, however, we know relatively little about the amount of energy United States (U.S.) adults expend in physically active behaviors each day. One way to estimate the amount of energy expended in physical activity is to calculate one's physical activity [...]
Exercise is good for you. There are many ways by which exercise favorably modifies health. One way is through a chemical known as interleukin-6, usually abbreviated as IL-6. During and following exercise, skeletal muscles release IL-6 into the blood. It is then transported throughout the body where it can have positive effects.
Sports performance is simple and definite. Someone wins, and someone else loses or comes second. Therefore, it is tempting to think in binary terms about other aspects of sports performance. The laws of physics predict that an increase in power-to-weight ratio will increase the speed of a body moving against gravity.
Urban green spaces are public land with vegetation, parks or water features, located in an urban setting. The support a sense of community.
The growing prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, or NAFLD, is quite astounding. With one in three people affected worldwide, NAFLD is a substantial public health issue that demands attention. Characterized by excessive fat deposition in the liver, NAFLD is typically found in the setting of metabolic dysfunction.
This blog explores the differences between Traditional and Roth IRAs, offering insights for sports medicine professionals on which retirement plan may be better for their long-term financial goals.
Dr. Katrina Piercy, FACSM, is the director of the Division of Prevention Science within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (ODPHP), having taken on the role in January 2022. Piercy earned a Ph.D. in exercise physiology and nutrition from Virginia Tech (in the department now [...]
Women are increasingly filling work roles that were previously dominated by men. While a larger proportion of military service members, law enforcement officers, health care workers and aviators continue to be men, women in these trades experience occupational hazards differently than their male counterparts. As a profession, we have already seen similar findings within athletics.
Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is an important component of physical fitness and represents the ability of the heart and the lungs to deliver oxygen to the working muscles during maximal-effort exercise. Over the past decades, CRF has been shown to be inversely related to many common and prevalent chronic diseases, including but not limited to cardiovascular [...]
Learn how fitness professionals can assess static posture in this ACSM blog. The guide covers key techniques to evaluate posture for better client training and injury prevention.
Part II of this ACSM guide continues exploring how fitness professionals can assess static posture. Learn advanced techniques and strategies for improving posture evaluation and optimizing client care.
September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, and for men living in the U.S., one in eight will be diagnosed with the disease at some point, including more than 200,000 this year. If you are an African American man, the likelihood is one in five, and if you have a family history of prostate cancer, the [...]
Research in the field of exercise oncology has created a large and consistent body of knowledge regarding the benefits of physical exercise throughout the cancer continuum. In this regard, several international organizations, in particular the American College of Sports Medicine® (ACSM), have published recommendations based on the existing evidence that justifies the need for appropriately [...]
It is well established that regular physical activity is beneficial for the human body and mind. Many studies have outlined the effects of aerobic exercise and resistance training for longevity and optimization of the health span. There are well-established guidelines for physical activity, such as Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans by the U.S.
Carvalho and colleagues provide suggestions for studies investigating the effectiveness of dietary nitrate in female performance.
This year marks the 10-year anniversary of the American Heart Association's (AHA) policy statement "The Importance of Cardiorespiratory Fitness in the United States: The Need for a National Registry." In my teaching and lecturing, I have often commented that the field of exercise physiology is a very young area of science.
This blog explains why simply checking the box for exercise isn't enough for your health. It emphasizes the importance of meaningful and consistent physical activity for overall well-being.
Participation in ultra-endurance events often pits human physiology against the earth's unruly elements. Generally, the term "endurance sports" refers to athletic events that occur for prolonged durations and it's clear that participation in endurance racing has increased exponentially over the last half century. Some of the most challenging and awe-inspiring events include ultra-marathon races such as [...]
The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) is the premier landscape for amateur athletics in the United States. Contrary to the notion that sport participation in the United States is equitable, it has been observed that college sport participation is more prevalent among individuals with specific geographic, social, and financial advantages.
From a physiological perspective, long-distance running performance is determined by the interaction of three factors: maximal oxygen uptake, the highest oxygen uptake that can be sustained (at steady-state) and running economy (the amount of oxygen required to transport the body mass over a given distance).
Alzheimer's disease and related dementias are among the world's foremost health and economic challenges, impacting over 55 million people worldwide and costing more than 1.3 trillion U.S. dollars in 2019 alone. With no imminent cure, there is an urgent need for interventions that reduce dementia risk in healthy older adults.
A common definition of fatigue is a "subjective lack of physical and/or mental energy perceived to interfere with usual or desired activities." Fatigue is a typical response to physical or mental exertion such as exercise, challenging physical tasks, or a long day's work or dealing with emotionally taxing situations.
For young researchers, the excitement of publishing is often overshadowed by the questions "Will my work reach a wider audience, or will only a handful read it?" and "If my work is read, will the impact of my work be understood by the reader?" Such concerns can propel students and young professionals to seek innovative [...]
The team physician commonly encounters musculoskeletal injuries resulting from athletic activities, including during practice, training and competition. The most common injuries encountered by a team physician include shoulder dislocation/subluxation, disabled throwing shoulders, elbow ulnar collateral injuries, hamstring injuries, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries, meniscus (cartilage) tears, ankle sprains, and groin and hip injuries.
"Our kids won't want to do that; they don't like to exercise." When I first proposed an exercise program for autistic children at the Institute for Autism Research at Canisius University, that was a response I often heard. The reasons why autistic individuals won't exercise are as varied as the individuals themselves: uninterested, difficulty moving, picked last [...]
With the growing participation of athletes with disabilities in competitive sports, there is an increased need for specialized nutritional support tailored to their unique physiological differences. These athletes often exhibit distinct body compositions, metabolic rates, training loads and activity patterns compared to their peers without disabilities.
May is Active Transportation Month, a time to get outside - an experience enhanced by walking, riding or rolling rather than driving a vehicle. The health benefits of incorporating physical activity into one's daily routines, whether during our commute, running errands or simply for leisure, have been extensively reported.
This blog explores the limitations of open-book exams in professional certification, highlighting why rigorous standards are essential for ensuring competency and maintaining credibility in the field.
Scientific evidence collected for seven decades strongly supports the position that higher cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) levels are associated with more favorable health outcomes, including mortality due to various cancers. Findings from several small population studies suggest that a physically active lifestyle offers protection against pre- and postmenopausal breast cancer.
This blog explores efforts to advance evidence-based sports science, highlighting groundbreaking research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and innovations to enhance athletic performance and well-being.
Learn how exercise professionals can build deeper client connections by asking thoughtful, open-ended questions. Strengthen rapport and boost results with these effective communication strategies.
Dr. Konin discusses the NCAA's decision to remove cannabinoids from its banned substance list, highlighting the ineffectiveness of previous THC and marijuana testing policies and supporting a harm-reduction approach, advocating for individualized interventions over punitive measures.
FY 2025 Congressional Appropriations As House spending bills undergo subcommittee markups, Senate appropriators have outlined 302(b) allocations, despite a lack of Republican agreement to expedite bill consideration. Currently, only the Agriculture, Military Construction-VA, and legislative branch measures have received allocations and will be considered at the full committee level on July 11, bypassing the subcommittee [...]
Everyone looks forward to the summer, especially teens. In the United States, this two- to three-month period is typically characterized by sleeping in, catching up on shows and taking part in assorted adventures. But today's adventures may be different than those of the past. Just in case parents of today's teens needed a reminder, we [...]
Many athletes struggle to lose weight despite restricting calories, often due to relative energy deficiency in sport (REDs), which impairs metabolism and overall health. Addressing low energy availability (LEA) with proper nutrition, structured eating plans, and professional guidance can restore balance, improve performance, and prevent long-term health issues.
As you look around your home, you may spot devices like smartphones, tablets, smart TVs or even fitness tools like a smart gym, a smart soccer ball, or a virtual reality exercise bike. These devices not only keep us connected or entertained but also transform how we approach health and fitness.
The recent elections underscored the nation's ongoing political divisions while highlighting key trends and shifts in voter priorities. Across the country, voters turned out to decide pivotal races for Congress, state legislatures and local offices, as well as ballot measures addressing issues like abortion rights, economic policy and voting access.
The World Health Organization (WHO) states that 99% of the world's population lives in places where air pollution exceeds recommended limits. Thus, we should keep the questions of how, when and if to engage in outdoor physical activity top of mind. Interestingly, among the organs in the human body, the lungs are unique because they [...]
Since the enactment of Title IX in 1972, the number of girls participating in high school athletics has tripled, with the greatest increases appearing in contact and collision sports. Despite this increase in sports participation, female athletes remain underrepresented in studies of sport-related brain trauma.
Plantar fasciitis (PF) is a common running-related injury that manifests as intense heel pain, often disrupting the daily activities of those affected. Despite its high prevalence in the running population, the risk factors contributing to PF remain elusive. Previous studies have proposed various risk factors such as age, body mass, lower limb kinematics, ground reaction [...]
Learn about OSHA's proposed rule that aims to protect workers from heat illness with hydration, rest breaks, and temperature monitoring.
To All Our ACSM Volunteers : As president and CEO, respectively, of ACSM, we want to jointly thank you for the time and effort you are contributing to the fields of sports medicine, exercise science and related fields - not only during National Volunteer Week, but for the other 51 weeks of the year as [...]
I fear getting sick when I travel to competitions. Anything I can eat to prevent illness? What's the best diet to boost my immune system? I have nasty wounds from a bike crash. Will extra protein help fight off infection and speed recovery? * * * Staying healthy is a top priority for athletes who [...]
The first International Consensus Statement on Concussion in Sport was published in 2002. Among its recommendations was the guideline that athletes should have complete rest until asymptomatic, preventing athletes from playing while still recovering. Some clinicians also encouraged no screen viewing or social interaction. This rest approach was largely based on several animal research studies [...]
Exercise can be an effective component of cancer treatment, demonstrating an up to 50% lower risk of mortality for active patients.
Once reserved for a small group of passionate runners, ultra-trail races, defined as events longer than the standard 42 km marathon, have attracted a growing number of participants in recent years. In this expanding field, the Tor des Géants stands out as a true behemoth; spanning 330 km with 24,000 meters of elevation gain, it [...]
Gatorade has launched the Gatorade Fieldhouse, a dedicated online forum designed to connect and educate sports and health performance professionals. This new platform serves as a central hub built by and for practitioners in the field, fostering a collaborative environment for growth and knowledge sharing.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common musculoskeletal disorder globally, affecting nearly 600 million people, or 7.6% of the population. Pain and loss of physical function are often the main limiting factors that impede aging adults from living a fulfilling, active life. While a well-rounded exercise program is recommended for OA management, strength and power training [...]
Rural-dwelling individuals have higher rates of physical inactivity and chronic diseases - as well as lower life expectancies and poorer health outcomes - than those living in urban areas. The implementation of physical activity interventions should be encouraged in such communities to improve health and reduce disease risk.
The 2025 ACSM American Fitness Index has added new indicators: trail miles, splashpads, and pickleball and dual-use courts.
In March 2025, new evidence-based guidelines for physical activity, sedentary behavior and sleep throughout the first year postpartum were released by the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology (CSEP) and endorsed by the American College of Sports Medicine® (ACSM). The guidelines are intended for women and people, health care providers and exercise professionals on physical activity, [...]
The throwing arms of baseball players, especially pitchers, are exposed to some of the most demanding biomechanical loads in sports. These stresses lead to both adaptive and pathologic changes in the shoulder and elbow. As the incidence of throwing-related injuries continues to increase, it is critical that sports medicine specialists have a sound understanding of [...]
Following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), athletes often exhibit altered knee biomechanics during running, such as reduced knee flexion angles and extensor moments of the surgical limb compared to the nonsurgical limb, healthy controls and the preinjury state. These altered biomechanics persist well beyond the standard course of rehabilitation and may impair athletic performance, increase [...]
There is little doubt that our brain changes as we age, with changes in structure that contribute to cognitive decline over time. However, the degree of change is highly variable across individuals in terms of its onset, rate and magnitude. How should we behave, and what should we change to ensure that our brains stay [...]
Visual/Infographic Copyediting
Your client's health and well-being, and your ability to understand and meet their needs, are affected by the context you each live in - your social determinants of health.
Breathing doesn't just impact you physically, but mentally as well. This infographic shares breathing exercises to help you or your clients control breathing as a way to improve mental health.
Want to make a difference in your community? Four tips to get yourself started in participating in local advocacy.
In a hurried culture that places a high value on youthfulness, outcomes and technology, there are a few key perspectives fitness professionals should have when working with older population clients to honor their time, contributions and needs.
Exercise professionals help clients with more than just physical health. How can we support their mental health while looking after our own emotions too? Check out these tips, developed with ACSM partner Wellcoaches.
Magazine Copyediting
I copyedited and proofread every issue of Stone Soup Magazine from January 2019 until the Children's Art Foundation ceased production of its print magazines after the release of its September/October 2024 issue. Founded in 1973, this household name in the children's literature space publishes stories, poems, art, and essays by young people ages six to eight. All digitized issues are available in their archives, linked here.
YA Book Copyediting
Earth, 2119. There's no longer any poverty, crime, or war, but the planet—on the brink of its sixth mass extinction—has become a barely habitable wasteland. Enter Tabby Fox, a teenager who lives alone with her dog and leads a monotonous existence: work, eat, shower, sleep, repeat. Then, one day, the head of the shadowy government appears on her terrace, calling her to help execute a top-secret mission to recover a valuable android. From another planet. As Tabby trains for her journey into...
The Other Realm is Tristan Hui's first novel, written when she was 14 years old. It won the Stone Soup Book contest 2020. A future-fiction fantasy in the tradition of The Wizard of Oz, The Other Realm is an original and gripping adventure story, told in lively, compelling language that will engage readers of all ages.
"The darkness isn't as bad / as people think." So ends the first poem in Emma Catherine Hoff's numinous debut, An Archeology of the Future-before proceeding calmly, curiously into the dark. People weep in the streets. The snow closes its eyes. Birds scream, a question begs the world for its answer, everything is "frozen yet moving." Hoff's world, like ours, is ending, and yet this is not a tragedy: "there was peace for Earth / with no one there." Walking the tightrope between humor and...
Éclair is a vibrant and free-spirited sparrow, who spends most of his days singing and begging for scraps of his favorite pastries from patrons at a local bakery. Then, one day, everything changes: lured in by a blueberry muffin, he is captured and brought to live in a cage in a Human Nest. As the days turn into weeks, Éclair and his captor, the Handkerchief Woman, forge an unlikely bond-and he slowly, reluctantly adapts to life away from the open skies. But, just as Éclair has begun to...