The Definition of Exercise

Why Define?
For a usable language, each word's meaning must be delimited. In fact, to define actually means to delimit meaning or to give meaning a bounds. We define a word more, not by stating what it represents, but more by restricting what it means. To de-fine is to say what a word does not mean.

Modern science is distinguished by two important traits. Science requires rigidly-controlled experimental method and rigorously-exacting and consistent language to describe the procedures and outcome of the method.

The supreme example of exactness in language is found in mathematics. A mathematician defines a concept such as point in geometry in such a manner that leaves you no latitude for confusing it with some other entity. Point is defined by delimiting meaning, by strictly excluding all other possibilities.

The Pythagoreans came to power 2500 years ago. They left a legacy of exacting mathematical language. But the Pythagoreans were not scientists. They expressed and imposed a strong disdain for experimental method. They reasoned that all that was knowable or useful was derivable from logical thought and mathematical language.

We now see the opposite situation in exercise physiology. Physiologists are aficionados of experimental method yet they possess no exacting language for exercise. What is more, a definition is discouraged. To restrict meaning is to discriminate nondescript activity from activity that is controlled so to be objectively measured and assessed. Though scientifically beneficial, such discrimination confronts personalities who have emotional attachments to the seemingly-infinite variety of indulged nondescript activities. In short, to formally define exercise risks alienation of almost anyone in defense of his pet activity.

It may be argued - however weakly - that experimental method eventually refines a definition of exercise. On the contrary, experimental method is grossly compromised in the absence of a formal definition. A formal definition is of critical importance to experimental method. Particularly when dealing with human subjects, a control group is often required. The definition of control group is interdependent on the exercise definition. To define exercise by what it is not, is to define all else as non-exercise - hence, control group. The converse of this is yet-more pertinent: Without a formal definition of exercise, you can not distinguish control group.

Consideration Outline
I first stated the rudiments of the Exercise vs Recreation argument at a Nautilus Seminar in 1982. At the behest of Ellington Darden, I developed it to its refined degree within the following year. In so doing, I believed that this argument provided the long-sought formal definition for exercise. Although Exercise vs Recreation was a crucial clarification toward this fulfillment, there were other required and simultaneous considerations.

In 1987, I developed the following outline, The Simultaneous Considerations for a Definition of Exercise. Note that several entries are set-off in italics. These are the only areas studied or emphasized by most so-called experts in exercise. Most are not aware of or particular about the remainder: 

1. Exercise vs Recreation

2. Mechanical (Newtonian) Physics

• Force Movement
• Time
• Lever
• Acceleration
• Friction

3. Intensity/Inroad/Recovery

4. Safety vs Danger

The Definition

Exercise is a process whereby the body performs work of a demanding nature, in accordance with muscle and joint function, in a clinically-controlled environment, within the constraints of safety, meaningfully loading the muscular structures to inroad their strength levels to stimulate a growth mechanism within minimum time.

Embellishment 
High Intensity Resistance Training is the exercise protocol that best represents and physically expresses The First Definition of Exercise. High Intensity Resistance Training offers the ultimate in control from every perspective. It offers the greatest benefits and the ultimate safety. High Intensity Resistance Training is exemplary for The Definition. In other words, High Intensity Resistance Training is definitive for exercise.

Outrage
There are now hundreds of universities and colleges in the United States granting degrees in exercise science. There are approximately 70 multi-million-dollar companies selling exercise equipment. There are dozens of agencies offering certification courses in exercise instruction. Hundreds of millions of dollars of public and private funds are spent yearly on research regarding exercise as it relates to physical therapy, fitness, and general medical concerns. It is outrageous that no one in these areas has yet offered a scientific definition to state what they are talking about!