Exercise Physiologists

Employers

Approximately 21,500 exercise physiologists are employed in the United States. Potential employers will depend on your specialization. Clinical exercise physiologists often work at hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, and nursing homes. Exercise physiologists specializing in sports medicine work with sports and athletic programs of local high schools, colleges and universities, and even professional sports teams. Fitness centers and health clubs are common employers for those working as personal trainers and fitness instructors. Some larger corporations value the importance of exercise and healthy living and contract professionals to design and implement corporate wellness programs for their employees. Those with advanced degrees may find employment at the collegiate level teaching exercise physiology, exercise science, or other related fields.

Starting Out

Those with a bachelor's degree will be able to find employment as an exercise physiologist—however, their choices may be limited. A common starting point may be as an assistant to a wellness program director, sports consultant, or physical therapy assistant. Professors of exercise physiology may hire new graduates as research assistants.

An internship will provide you with relevant work experience as well as employment contacts. Some students opt to schedule their internships after graduation; some programs require a semester internship as part of the curriculum. There are many types of internships available in a variety of specialties. For example, a hospital might offer interns the chance to work alongside professionals in its different departments such as Cardiac Rehab and Wellness/Nutrition. A state-level branch of the Special Olympics might host an internship program that allows students to apply their education in exercise physiology as well as their organizational skills while helping to prepare and manage the many events of the Special Olympics.