North Carolina Wesleyan University (NCWU) is proud to announce that Dr. Meir Magal, Program Director, Inaugural Souza Professor of Exercise Science, and Chair of the School of Health Sciences, is recognized as the second author of a newly published American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) consensus statement that redefines the components of physical fitness for the modern era.
Published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, the ACSM’s peer-reviewed flagship journal, widely recognized for top-tier multidisciplinary research in sports medicine and exercise science, The Components of Physical Fitness presents an updated, evidence-based framework that reflects decades of scientific advancement. The consensus statement identifies five interconnected components of physical fitness: cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular fitness, body composition, neuromotor fitness, and flexibility.
About the Publication
The publication replaces the longstanding distinction between “health-related” and “skill-related” fitness with a more comprehensive model that better reflects current research and supports individualized assessment across adulthood.
“This project took nearly five years to complete, and I am honored to have collaborated with leading experts in our field as the second author on this publication,” said Dr. Magal. “I believe this publication not only advances the field but also enhances the university’s visibility and reputation.”
Consensus statements published by ACSM are developed by nationally and internationally recognized experts and serve as important references for educators, researchers, clinicians, and exercise professionals. The updated framework is expected to influence how physical fitness is taught, assessed, and applied in academic, clinical, and performance settings.
“Dr. Magal’s contribution to this landmark publication reflects the caliber of scholarship and leadership found within our School of Health Sciences,” said NCWU President Dr. Evan D. Duff. “Having one of our faculty members help shape national conversations in exercise science reinforces our commitment to academic excellence and provides our students with the opportunity to learn from leaders who are actively advancing their profession.”
Why this matters for Wesleyan
As Chair of the School of Health Sciences, Dr. Magal brings decades of experience in exercise physiology, human performance, and research. His involvement in this international initiative further strengthens North Carolina Wesleyan University’s growing reputation for excellence in health sciences education and research.
NCWU continues to invest in innovative academic programs that prepare students to become leaders in healthcare, human performance, and related fields. Faculty scholarship such as this ensures students benefit from instruction grounded in the latest scientific discoveries while contributing to the advancement of their disciplines.
For more information about North Carolina Wesleyan University’s School of Health Sciences, visit ncwu.edu.
