"This workshop offers a solid introduction to the field of exercise science," says Poudevigne. "It not only provides broad instruction on why exercise is necessary in daily activities, but it also gives specific information about the components of fitness and a basic understanding of nutrition."

Offering a sneak peak into the workshop curriculum, Poudevigne identifies several fitness components that the workshop will address: cardiovascular fitness, flexibility, resistance training, body composition, and behavior change modification tips for a long-term goal of wellness.

Understanding these fitness components may be an important part of the physical training profession, but, as Poudevigne points out, everyone should know the basics about getting healthy and staying healthy. To make sure everyone leaves the workshop with better health habits, the course will offer a nutrition session on understanding food labels and will teach specific methods for assessing the body's composition.

"Most people who attend these workshops are interested in improving their health first before becoming a personal trainer for others," Poudevigne says. In fact, many attendees want to know how to use principles of exercise science in their own lives, she adds.

To register for the three-day workshop, contact ACSM at www.vue.com/acsm/archive/2004_12_01_workshops.html, or call their toll free number, 1-888-VUE-ACSM. Workshop costs range from $359 to attend all three sessions to $129 for a one day ticket. One-day tickets are available only for those who are already certified or educated in exercise science.

While the Clayton State workshop provides the groundwork for certification, attendees must take the ACSM exam at a Pearson vue computerized testing center to receive certification and earn a current CPR license for adults. Full details on becoming ACSM certified and retaining ACSM certification will be explained during the workshop.

Poudevigne, originally from Evreaux, France, serves as an assistant professor at Clayton State and as program coordinator in the University's Health/Fitness Management program. She began her career in fitness working with athletes, and is now a consultant for ACSM.

Poudevigne holds a Ph.D. in Exercise Psychology from the University of Georgia (2004), a Master's in Exercise Physiology from the University of Marseille in France (2000), a B.S. in Coaching & Motor Performance from the University of Paris (1999), and an A.S. in Physical Education, also from the University of Paris (1997).

For more information regarding the personal trainer certification, visit www.acsm.com. To learn more about Clayton State's Health/Fitness Management program, call Poudevigne at 770-960-2095 or e-mail [email protected] u.