Exercise physiology is the science of exercise. It’s one of the few allied health careers which involves the study of both the immediate physiological responses and long-term adaptive changes to exercise, its components, and the training itself. It’s also one of the few professions which is less influenced by the scientific research into exercise and more influenced by the needs and desires of the exercise populations. The discipline has come a long way since its origins in early twentieth century sports studies. These early studies focused on studying and categorizing the different aspects of exercise that had direct application to sports performance.
As time passed, the focus of exercise physiology study broadened to include more areas of exercise science and an increased number of study areas. Today, exercise physiology specialists are involved with rehabilitation, sports, and exercise for general health and well-being. This career can be challenging. To advance in this career, you must be willing to work in a variety of settings. Here are some tips to help you get into the ideal career of an exercise physiologist:
Education –
becoming an exercise physiologist requires at least a bachelor’s degree, but it doesn’t need to be a master’s degree to fulfill the standards. There are numerous accredited colleges that offer coursework leading to a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology. For those students interested in getting into the field as an exercise physiologist should consider taking classes related to sports medicine or clinical exercise physiology. These classes will prepare you for your career as a sport and recreational medicine physician.
Certification –
becoming an exercise physiologist requires certification. There are several certifying bodies that offer this credential. Examples of these certifications are the International Society for Sport and Physical Education (ISSPE), American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), and the National Board for Quality Assurance in Medicine (NBAMA).
Work Environment –
works in an exercise physiologist career test can be challenging work environments. You will need to work in a variety of environments to gain experience and build a solid foundation of knowledge required to perform well in your job. You will likely spend some time in a hospital setting, a laboratory, and an office. In a hospital setting you will likely work alongside physicians, nurses, and other health care professionals. During your career test you will demonstrate your ability to observe, diagnose, and treat the human body.
Qualifications and Education –
become an exercise physiologist requires rigorous educational background and years of clinical training. These credentials are necessary for entry into the field. Many schools and colleges require at least a bachelor’s degree in physical sciences and education, along with relevant experience in the field. This includes one to two years of training at a certified cardiovascular rehabilitation facility. These schools and colleges also conduct specialized internship programs that cover a wide variety of topics in cardiovascular rehabilitation.
Work Experience –
becoming an exercise physiologist requires both on the job training and off the job experience. During your training you may perform clinical exercises that assess cardiovascular illness and disease. These clinical studies are often supported by a doctorate level dissertation. Your studies will also show you the relationship between exercise physiology and public health. You will demonstrate your ability to assist physicians with the diagnoses of certain diseases through careful assessment and written reports. Your academic accomplishments along with your dissertation will allow you to enter the field as a certified personal trainer.
The American College of Sports Medicine has recognized four different certifications that can be used to become a full-fledged exercise physiologist. These include the Bachelor of Science in Exercise, the Master of Science in Exercise and Sports, the Doctorate in Exercise Physiology, and the Specialized Practitioner in Exercise Physiology. These certifications are recognized by employers in both the physical fitness and wellness fields and help to fulfill your career goals. When you consider a career as an exercise physiologist, keep these four accreditation in mind. One can find the best opportunities for exercise physiologists on websites like thebetteryoo.com.