Exercise Science majors don't really get enough credit for the field that they are in. It's a lot of hard work and dedication. While the title of the field may seem a bit misleading as to what the major actually entails, there's some things that people just don't seem to get.
1. "So you're gonna be a personal trainer, right?"
Not everyone going into Exercise Science wants to be a trainer. Most of us want to pursue something like Physical Therapy or medical school. In fact, Exercise Science is one of the largest growing majors across universities all over. More people are applying to PT or OT school than ever before.
2. "You must be one of those gym rats."
While many of us are interested in a healthy lifestyle (kind of a big deal for the field), working out is not the biggest part of it. I admit, I do enjoy working out, but I know plenty of Exercise Science majors who would rather claw their eyes out than step foot in a gym. There is such a greater aspect to what the major is. It's about maintaining a healthy lifestyle, not just "getting swole". There are so many more components including nutrition and mental health that are just as important as physical activity.
3. "Can you make a workout program for me?"
I mean, I can tell you what works for me. Every workout is different. It all depends on the person and what he or she is trying to accomplish. Most Exercise Science majors would be happy to help you with your workout, but making you a personalized workout program might not necessarily be up our ally.
4. "Are you even taking 'real' science classes?"
By "real", do you mean that I cry real tears when I study? If so then yes, yes I do. Chemistry, Biology, Anatomy, Physics, Health, Medical Terminology, etc. Yup, we have all of that. And yes, it sucks.
5. "So are you on a special diet?"
You don't need an Exercise Science major to tell you that diets don't work. Yah, we know what we need to keep us healthy, but that doesn't mean that pizza is the devil. We enjoy the occasional cupcake and ice cream cone, and we're not going to shove our healthy eating knowledge down your throats. If you ask us for advice, we'll gladly tell you what we know, now let me eat this candy bar.
6. "What are you going to do with that?"
Literally whatever I want.
7. "Are you only doing that because you like working out?"
Are you an English major because you speak English?
8. "Can you fix my injury?"
I do not have a medical degree. I am CPR certified and can probably make you a make-shift splint until you get to the hospital, but even though I have a bomb figure-8 wrap technique, I can't, nor do I want, to pop your shoulder back into place.
8. "Do you love The Biggest Loser?"
9. "How much can you [insert stereotypical workout move]?"
How much can you? That's it? See how annoying that is?
10. "CrossFit bond, amiright?"
I've never done CrossFit. I have no plans to do CrossFit. It may work for some people, but for me, I prefer to stick to my school's gym with sweaty football players and do my own thing.
