exercise physiologist

1. What Does an Exercise Physiologist do? launchora.com/story/what-does-an-exercise-physiologist-do Exercise physiology is simply the physiology of exercise. It's one of those allied health careers which involve the study of exercise, the physiological processes it goes through, and the long-term adaptations and responses to exercise that it involves. Exercise physiology deals with the understanding of how exercise impacts the body as a whole; from the biochemical and cellular level right through to the musculoskeletal system. A well-qualified exercise physiologist is required to not only study the physiological responses to exercise but also how exercise modifies the individual physiologic processes. They are essentially the gatekeepers of exercise science. An exercise physiologist can specialize in any of a number of areas. They include physiology, pediatrics, kinesiology (the study of motion), occupational therapy, cardiovascular sciences (cardiovascular conditioning), neurology, pediatrics, and rehabilitation. In most cases, they're required to obtain a master's degree in exercise physiology or a related field. Many doctors also choose to add a master of science in exercise physiology to their professional curriculum. These degrees are nationally recognized and have been shown to be highly effective in helping to prepare individuals for their future positions in exercise physiology. Understand the primary role of the physiologist The primary role of exercise physiologists work is to monitor and evaluate the health of patients with certain physical activity or other health conditions. These health conditions could include coronary heart disease, hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, obesity, diabetes, osteoporosis, kidney disease, and many others. They are responsible for evaluating the patients on a regular basis and implementing treatment plans in accordance with established guidelines. The exercise physiologist will often collaborate with other physicians and other specialists in order to treat and prevent various chronic health conditions. There are some health professionals who prefer to work exclusively in a clinical setting, while others like the challenge of assisting in rehabilitation for athletes following surgery or injury. If you choose to become an exercise physiologist you must have completed a graduate-level degree in exercise physiology with a corresponding Masters of Science in Physical Activity or Education program. Your coursework may consist of an internship in a medical facility or fitness center as well as a year of study at a university or college. Some of your coursework may even include clinical experiences, such as monitoring and evaluating heart health in high school and college athletes. After completing an education program you will want to focus on a specific area of exercise physiology. For example, you may want to focus on the rehabilitation of athletes following surgery or a sports-related injury. You will need to gain a background and 1/2

2. understanding of how body composition affects overall fitness, how exercise programs affect physiological and psychological fitness, and how nutrition and supplementation can improve body composition and cardiovascular fitness. 2/2