Physiology is the branch of biology that deals with the normal functions of living organisms and their parts. Be prepared to work with a team of healthcare professionals who impact patient quality of life on a daily basis and counsel clients, too by becoming an ACSM Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist (RCEP). ACSM Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologists (CEP) provide exercise-related consulting, and conduct assessments and individualized training to guide and strengthen the lifestyles of those with cardiovascular, pulmonary, and metabolic diseases and disorders. Becoming an ACSM Certified Exercise Physiologist means you can master the skills to pursue a career devoted to helping others. Physiology is the study of how the human body works. It describes the chemistry and physics behind basic body functions, from how molecules behave in cells to how systems of organs work together. It helps us understand what happens in a healthy body in everyday life and what goes wrong when someone gets sick. Most of physiology depends on basic research studies carried out in a laboratory. Some physiologists study single proteins or cells, while others might do research on how cells interact to form tissues, organs, and systems within the body. The cardiovascular system - your heart and blood vesselsThe digestive system - the stomach, intestines, and other organs that digest foodThe endocrine system - glands that make hormones, the chemicals that control many body functionsThe immune system - your bodys defense against germs and diseaseThe muscular system - the muscles you use to move your bodyThe nervous system - your brain, spinal cord, and nervesThe renal system - your kidneys and other organs that control the fluid in your bodyThe reproductive system - sex organs for men and womenThe respiratory system - your lungs and airwaysThe skeletal system - bones, joints, cartilage, and connective tissueFor each system, physiology sheds light on the chemistry and physics of the structures involved. For example, physiologists have studied the electrical activity of cells in the heart that control its beat. Theyre also exploring the process by which eyes detect light, from how the cells in the retina process light particles called photons to how the eyes send signals about images to the brain. Physiology revolves around understanding how the human body maintains a steady state while adapting to outside conditions, a process called homeostasis. How do your organ systems keep your temperature relatively stable in different environments? How does your body keep your blood sugar and other chemical levels constant even when you eat different foods? These are the kinds of questions that physiologists aim to answer. Physiology in MedicineBy shedding light on normal body functions, physiology can teach lessons about what goes wrong in disease. For instance, physiologists have figured out how different types of cells in the pancreas release hormones to control blood sugar levels. That helps doctors understand and treat diabetes. The field also offers insights into how to make the human body work more efficiently. Its often part of sports medicine, where knowing how the body adapts to physical challenges helps elite athletes improve their performance, avoid injury, and recover faster.
