Michele Scharff Olson

Michele Scharff Olson is a Senior Clinical Professor in the Department of Sport Science and Physical Education at Huntingdon College, where she also serves as the Director of the Institutional Review Board (IRB) for Human Subjects Research. She holds a Ph.D. in Kinesiology from Auburn University, an M.Ed. in Health and Human Performance from Auburn University, and a B.A. in Education—Physical Education from Huntingdon College, graduating Magna Cum Laude.

• Ph.D., Kinesiology – Auburn University
• M.Ed., Health and Human Performance – Auburn University
• B.A., Education—Physical Education – Huntingdon College (Magna Cum Laude)

Dr. Olson is internationally recognized as "The Exercise Doctor" and is renowned for her research in exercise physiology, particularly in the metabolic and biomechanical responses to Pilates, Tabata, kettlebells, and other popular fitness modalities. Her work also investigates body image and eating disorders in active women, injury mechanisms in fitness activities, and cardiovascular responses in diverse populations. She has published over 90 peer-reviewed articles and is a Fellow of the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM).

Her recent research, as seen in the 15 most recent publications, demonstrates a strong focus on energy expenditure in adaptive sports (e.g., wheelchair basketball), metabolic cost of high-intensity interval training, and the physiological and psychological impacts of various exercise programs. Her work frequently employs electromyography (EMG) and accelerometry to assess muscle activation and physical activity levels.

Dr. Olson has received numerous honors, including:

• Fellow, American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)
• NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)
• Ida Belle Young Endowed Professorship (2013)
• Multiple teaching and research awards from Auburn University Montgomery
• The Michele Scharff Olson Human Performance Laboratory at Huntingdon College is named in her honor

She has secured significant research funding from state and private sources, including the Alabama Department of Public Health and industry partners like Reebok and Rodale Inc. Her advisory and editorial roles include the ACSM Health and Fitness Journal, Shape Magazine, and WebMed Central. She is also known for her fitness DVDs and has been featured in major media outlets such as The New York Times and the Wall Street Journal.

Dr. Olson is actively engaged in research, mentoring, and institutional leadership, with no indication of retirement or part-time status. Her work continues to influence both academic research and public fitness practices.