What Exercise Physiologists Do

Exercise physiologists analyze a patient's fitness, helping them improve and maintain a certain level of health. This includes patients in rehabilitation for heart disease and other chronic problems as well as athletes looking to optimize their performance. There are many different types of health testing that an exercise physiologist can administer to evaluate a person's current health status. This may include exercise stress testing with or without maximal oxygen uptake/VO2 max, body composition, flexibility tests, power/strength tests, and sub-maximal aerobic tests. From there they can develop and prescribe exercise plans focusing on fitness, strength, endurance, and flexibility.

Types of Work Environments

  • Hospitals
  • Athletic training programs at colleges and universities
  • Fitness facilities
  • Rehabilitation clinics

Education and Training Requirements

Most employers require a candidate to have at least a bachelor's degree to be an exercise physiologist. However, many exercise physiologists specializing in cardiac rehabilitation also have a master's degree. Most academic programs will require some hands-on training in the form of an internship or practicum. It is advisable to pursue certification from one or multiple professional societies such as the American College of Sports Medicine, the American Society of Exercise Physiologists, the National Strength and Conditioning Association, and/or the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation.

Salary

According to salary.com, the median salary for exercise physiologists is approximately $57,506 per year.

Professional Organization

The American Society of Exercise Physiologists
American College of Sports Medicine
National Strength and Conditioning Association
American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Learn More