Applied science Report - Research Paper Example

While clinical science includes a scientific component, it also includes aspects of care such as communication and knowledge, acquired through interaction in the health care environment. Clinical science is distinguished from medical practice, in that it includes experiences and knowledge gained through interaction, as well as relevant data surrounding clinical issues. Daniels & Powell (2006) define clinical science as “the contributions of scientific disciplines to health promotion and the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease through the development, communication and application of new knowledge.

” The definition does not suggest, however, the existing knowledge and experiences are cast aside, in preference of more current findings. It implies that existing knowledge, experience and data can be used to further advance or develop new methods of inquiry and new approaches for the clinical setting. Two topics of interest in clinical science today are those of exercise and sports psychology. Exercise is an increasingly important topic, as more Americans face health issues, due to sedentary lifestyles.

Benefits of regular exercise are linked to longevity and holistic wellbeing of a person. Sports psychology is an important topic, as it provides insight into how top athletes develop and how they are able to become the best and fiercest competitors. This report will investigate how a physical activity program and visualization techniques can be coupled, to improve overall fitness. “Numerous athletes are turning towards mental imagery to take their game to the next level” (Plessinger, 2011).

Understanding how athletes use imagery can help those who adopt a regular exercise program achieve the results they desire. Research Method The method of research used for this report is inquiry into current literature on both the benefits of regular exercise and the benefits of visualization in exercise. Data collected from literature includes scientific journals on exercise and sports performance, with the inclusion of reports available on the internet, which focus on health benefits of exercise and the benefits of visualization in sports.

Key words used to find relevant literature include visualization in sports, benefits of regular exercise, mental imagery in sports, science in exercise and use of mental imagery in competition. The databases used for journal articles are Academic Search Premier, for articles in Journal of Sports Behavior and Ebscohost, for Journal of Physiological Anthropology. Ebscohost is also used for the Book by Carol W. Kraak and Vivica I. Articles pertaining to sports performance were also obtained directly from the Vanderbilt University, Psychology Department website and from the University of Minnesota, Department of Medicine site.

Findings Physical Exercise With realization on benefits of regular exercise comes the pressure of incorporating exercise program into already over-crowded and busy daily routines. This means that maximal benefits are sought under the shortest span possible, predisposing one to risk of injury and chronic fatigue. Therefore, there is need to formulate a proper working out program. It is of great importance that before commencing an exercise program, one should consult with a clinical physician or a qualified sports physician.

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