Exercise physiology is the study of how exercise alters the function and structure of the body (EIS: http://www.eis2win.co.uk/pages/Physiology.aspx).  A sports physiologist examines the short term responses and long-term adaptations to sports performance in a variety of environments. A physiologist, possesses a wide-ranging understanding of the body, enabling them to advise athletes and coaches of how training and preparation influence competition performance.