Exercise physiology is a branch of science that studies how the body reacts to physical activity. Its main focus is “exercise as medicine,” in a nutshell. Human energy expenditure, human energy transfer, and environmental effects on physiology are all topics that someone working in this field might be interested in. Exercise physiologists are also interested in how physical activity affects the cardiovascular, endocrine, and musculoskeletal systems of the body.
Fitness and rehabilitation are the two primary areas of specialization in the field of exercise physiology. Fitness-focused exercise physiologists may work with professional athletes to improve their performance or provide advice to private clients trying to lose weight and get in shape. Exercise physiologists who specialize in rehabilitation frequently assist people recovering from injuries or dealing with chronic conditions like arthritis and lower back pain by creating a personalized exercise program that can be used as part of a comprehensive treatment strategy.
Unlike popular belief, becoming a successful exercise physiologist necessitates far more than a basic understanding of sports and fitness. Because an exercise physiologist works with a wide range of patients on a daily basis, strong communication skills are essential. Exercise physiology students must also complete rigorous college courses in chemistry, human anatomy, sports nutrition, kinesiology, and biomechanics if they want to pursue a career in the field. A bachelor’s degree in this field or exercise science is usually required, and a master’s degree may be required for certain positions. For most entry-level exercise physiology positions, practical experience gained through an internship or part-time employment is highly recommended.
In the field of exercise physiology, there are numerous job opportunities. A sports and wellness program manager, a sports medicine researcher, a fitness club instructor, a corporate health specialist, a nutritional consultant, or a sports physiologist for a professional athletic team are all possibilities for an exercise physiologist. Exercise physiologists who want to specialize in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation can apply for a number of hospital positions. Exercise physiologists’ salaries vary depending on where they work, their level of experience, and the type of company they work for.