The best exercise physiology career opportunities go to those who have an accredited bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD degree in exercise science or exercise physiology and have sat for and passed a licensing exam that gives them the credentials to call themselves an exercise physiologist. In general, exercise physiologists who have a bachelor’s or master’s degree work in clinics, hospitals, and health clubs as rehabilitation specialists, trainers, and managers. Exercise physiology career opportunities for PhD holders tend to be in research at colleges and universities. Increasingly, exercise physiology career opportunities are broadening beyond the stereotypical physical education teacher into the allied medical field.
Exercise physiology career opportunities are plentiful for those who specialize in training and guiding others in obtaining their health and fitness goals. They may work for spas, health and fitness centers, or hospitals. These individuals may work directly with clients to improve health, gain strength, or improve athletic performance. They may also work for large corporations to help employees become healthier. Some work with the military, police, or firefighters to improve health and safety and increase effectiveness on the job.
There are increasing exercise physiology career opportunities in cardiac rehabilitation centers. Exercise physiologists work with patients recovering from surgery or a cardiac event and evaluate their capacity for exercise. These specialists design programs to help build strength and capacity for meeting the physical demands of daily life. Exercise physiologists may also reach out to the general public through general health campaigns and sit on committee boards.
Exercise physiologists educate patients about health and wellness and design programs for recovering patients to continue on their own. In addition to working with cardiac patients, exercise physiologists may work with patients recovering from other types of surgery or those who have physical disabilities. They may design and support patients in implementing exercise plans that are appropriate for the patient’s age, physical condition, and lifestyle.
For PhDs, exercise physiology career opportunities tend to be at colleges and universities. These professionals conduct research on the human body and kinesthetics, test medical procedures, and study research subjects performing exercise tests. Exercise physiologists who hold PhDs may teach exercise physiology classes and other allied medical courses. Sometimes they may act as consultants, publish journal research findings, and perform academic administration duties.
Many exercise physiologists design and oversee sports performance programs for college and university athletes to increase athletic performance and keep players safe from injuries. They may design exercise plans catering to the athlete's sport and to strengthen individual weaknesses. Exercise physiologists can also consult and help implement student wellness campaigns on college campuses.
