Knowledge of anatomical structure of the body is basic to understanding
musculoskeletal function and how both structure and function are modified by exercise
or disease. Ironically, at a time when knowledge of anatomy is increasingly important,
exercise physiologists are facing a major crisis in anatomical education. There is a
major shortage of academic exercise physiologists willing to teach gross anatomy.
Many faculty members are simply not academically prepared to teach anatomy. Yet,
the students of exercise physiology need a thorough anatomy education to be credible
healthcare professionals. This is true for professionals in physical therapy and athletic
training and it is true for exercise physiologists too.
Keywords: Anatomical dissection, Athletic performance, Cognitive function,
Functional anatomy, Human anatomy, Memorization, Straight thinking.
