A Decision-Making Processes in Prescribing Exercise Programs in the Fitness Industry: A Study in Malaysia

Abstract

The increased awareness of benefiting from exercising stimulates the demand for fitness training professionals’ expertise. Fitness professionals (FTPs) serve clients in one-to-one personal training or group training in commercial fitness centers. Even though uncertain certification quality and paths to become a certified FTP could affect exercise program development and instruction, little is available on fitness profession expertise in prescribing and teaching exercise programs to members in commercial fitness centers. It is not entirely clear to the public what knowledge and skills apply to FTPs in conducting safe and practical exercises. This study responds to the increasing growth of people with young career experience and doubtful technical knowledge in Malaysia. This study plans to employ semi-structured interviews to examine how decisions are made with the fitness profession’s knowledge and skills. With the lens of the Cognitive Continuum Theory, this research will recognize FTPs’ decision-making processes lacking in the business and fitness literature. This study will generate a practical framework for the fitness profession, the public, and fitness operators to understand the importance of judgment and competencies in prescribing exercise programs.