What does an Exercise Physiologist do?

Regular exercise is often part of a complete treatment plan for diabetes, heart disease and many other health conditions, and Exercise Physiologists are the medical professionals who develop fitness plans for patients to follow.

By conducting tests, medical records reviews and interviews, Exercise Physiologists design programs that improve patients’ fitness levels while reducing their risk for injuries and other health complications associated with exercise. As a result, Exercise Physiologists make a positive impact on patient outcomes and support high patient satisfaction rates.

Exercise Physiologist skills and qualifications

Exercise Physiologists draw from certain skills and knowledge to carry out their assigned duties proficiently. Adding the following skills and qualifications to your Exercise Physiologist job description can support your skill-based hiring efforts and help you attract quality candidates:

• Extensive knowledge of anatomy, kinesiology, exercise science and nutrition

• Active listening and interview skills to gather information from patients

• Interpersonal and communication skills to interact professionally and effectively with patients

• Familiarity with exercise equipment, such as free weights, weight machines, resistance bands, stationary bicycles and treadmills

• Analytical and problem-solving skills to devise exercise plans based on the findings of tests, interviews and medical record reviews

• Writing skills to explain exercises and other elements of a physical plan in a clear, concise manner

• Ability to use metabolic carts, calipers, sphygmomanometers, stethoscopes, pulse oximeters and other testing and assessment tools and devices

• Computer skills to utilize email, presentation, word processing and medical records software programs

Exercise Physiologist experience requirements

Many Exercise Physiologist education programs include internships or clinical placements that provide hands-on experience. A candidate who has completed such a program may not need any additional work history to succeed in your open positions, especially if you have an established team of Exercise Physiologists available to support and mentor them.

However, you may wish to establish a few years of experience as a required qualification in your exercise physiology job description if your open position involves independent work or supervisory or training responsibilities.

Exercise Physiologist education and training requirements

A bachelor’s degree in exercise physiology or a related field is typically the minimum education required for Exercise Physiologists. Many employers often include certifications as a required or preferred qualification in an Exercise Physiology job description. Voluntary certifications in exercise physiology are available through the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and the American Society of Exercise Physiologists (ASEP). Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Red Cross, American Heart Association or another organization may also be desirable.

Some states may require Exercise Physiologists to acquire a state-issued license before practicing. Checking the laws and regulations in your area will help you determine whether you need to add a valid license to the qualifications section of your exercise physiology job description.

Job description samples for similar positions

If this Exercise Physiologist job description isn’t exactly what you’re looking for, consider these related jobs:

• Athletic Trainer

• Personal Trainer

• Physical Therapist

Exercise Physiologist job description FAQs

What’s the difference between an Exercise Physiologist and a Physical Therapist?

Physical Therapists and Exercise Physiologists are both medical professionals whose work relates to exercise but in different ways. Through exercise, massage and other techniques, a Physical Therapist helps patients recover strength and flexibility after an injury or damage due to a condition. They may refer patients to an Exercise Physiologist, who can develop a customized exercise program to support their recovery.

What’s the difference between an Exercise Physiologist and an Athletic Trainer?

Athletic Trainers and Exercise Physiologists both help athletes who have suffered injuries, but their jobs are different. Athletic Trainers advise athletes on how to reduce their injury risk and modify their training after injuries. An Exercise Physiologist creates custom exercise plans for all individuals with chronic conditions and injuries, not just athletes.

What’s the difference between an Exercise Physiologist and a Personal Trainer?

Although Exercise Physiologists and Personal Trainers both develop exercise plans, their jobs are not the same. An Exercise Physiologist is a medical professional who assists people with injuries and chronic medical conditions. A Personal Trainer usually has no medical training and creates exercise plans for individuals based on their fitness needs.