The Science of American Football

Book excerpt: The game of American football may be the greatest team sport that exists. It epitomizes the need of a "team" first approach to achieve the desired success. Success is often measured as the hoisting of a championship trophy, which involved a journey that required discipline, perseverance, sacrifice, and hard work. These traits are the backbone of success in football, but more importantly they are the backbone or blueprint for success in life. The Science of American Football provides an in-depth discussion on the physiology of the game of American football, including the physiological strain associated with playing in various environmental extremes. Acclimatization, preparation, and medical issues associated with each of these environmental extremes are discussed as well as medical issues occurring during the athlete’s playing career (common sites of injury) and potential risks arising post-career (e.g. neurological dysfunction, arthritic joints, obesity). The book goes on to consider aspects of player selection and preparation, including discussion of evidence-based physical conditioning programs, appropriate nutrition, and specific dietary supplementation for the American football player. The Science of American Football is the first book to focus on the physiology, science, and medical issues associated with the game of American football and will be key reading for students of coaching and exercise science as well as those with a keen interest in understanding the science of American football, such as coaches and players.