Student Opportunities at FOF
PRACTICUM AND INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCES
FOF offers comprehensive 3-month practicum and internship opportunities to all eligible Oregon State University students majoring in the Health and Fitness field. Eligibility is based on a short application process which must be completed preceeding the desired term. Applications may be picked up at our Corvallis facility. The practicum experience consists of five hours per week of on-floor group exercise leadership and personal training plus a one hour discussion roundtable with staff and other students. Internships range from 6 - 12 credits and a work schedule will be assigned accordingly. A small stipend will be offered to those interns who have successfully completed a practicum and passed the Fitness Over 50 Older Adult Fitness Specialist certificate test.
FOF OLDER ADULT FITNESS SPECIALIST CERTIFICATE PROGRAM
What is the FOF Older Adult Fitness Specialist Certificate Test?
It is a comprehensive test over the knowledge gained from a practicum or internship experience at Fitness Over 50. This test is an optional part of the practicum experience but is a major requirement of any internship at FOF. It is a closed book 112-question exam that includes multiple choice, short answer, and case study analysis questions.
This program was created to give students and fitness professionals the opportunity to utilize previously acquired academia along with newly learned skills and theory in a setting which focuses on providing exercise training and wellness specifically for older adults. Our goal is for candidates to demonstrate outstanding understanding of detailed written materials within the FOF Older Adult Specialist Handbook which includes articles, protocols, manuals, handouts, forms, and other literature covering the following topics:
New Client Orientation, Assessment, and Screening
Psychology of Older Adults
Exercise Prescription for Older Adults
Pharmacology and the Exercising Adult
Program Modifications for Special Conditions
The certification test can be taken after the completion of a practicum or internship. It is restricted only to those students who the FOF staff recognize as appropriate candidates (ie. high evaluation throughout the student experience). Students will be expected to inquire with the staff about the possibility of pursuing the certification. The exam itself will take about 1-1/2 to 2 hours to complete. What are the requirements to pass this test?
A score of 80% is required to pass the certificate program. What can the FOF Certification be used for?
This test is not currently recognized by any national organization. Successful completion of this certificate program is a reflection of the teachings and requirements of FOF. It demonstrates that the individual has the knowledge and background to work as a specialist in a fitness environment structured for the older adult. Upon completion, Fitness Over 50 will write a comprehensive professional letter of recommendation outlining the entire certificate program and student experience. This, with a certificate of achievement, will be an excellent addition to any resume.