Careers in Exercise Science & Physical Education

by Aurelio Locsin, Demand Media

Careers in exercise science and physical education involve how the human body moves, responds and adapts to athletic and everyday activities. These careers can involve leading diverse groups in exercise programs, aiding recovery from injuries that impair movement and improving everyday motor skills. Duties, qualifications and salaries vary by job title.

Fitness Trainers

Fitness trainers demonstrate exercises and motivate individuals and groups to improve strength, endurance and flexibility. They can specialize in particular disciplines such as aerobics or weightlifting, and work with people of all ages and fitness levels. Educational background varies by employer but can include certification in specific exercises on top of the bachelor’s degree in exercise science. Jobs are expected to grow by 24 percent from 2010, which is faster than average, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Fitness trainers earned a mean $17.38 per hour or $36,150 per year as of May 2011 according to the BLS. Most worked for other amusement and recreation industries, which includes fitness and recreation centers. The highest average salaries were in business, professional, labor, political and similar organizations at $25.03 per hour or $52,050 per year.

Athletic Trainers

Athletic trainers, who should not be confused with fitness trainers, are health professionals who prevent, diagnose and treat body injuries and illnesses. They apply protective devices such as tape and braces, provide first aid and carry out rehabilitation programs. Some states require a license. The BLS predicts that employment for the profession will increase at 30 percent. Athletic trainers earned a mean $44,640 per year in 2011. Because of they did not work full-time and year-round, the BLS could not compile hourly rates. The biggest employers of trainers were colleges, universities and professional schools. The highest-paying employers were performing arts companies with average salaries of $56,790 per year.

Physical Therapists

Physical therapists manage the pain and help improve the movement range of patients who suffer from injuries, disease or disability. They diagnose physical disorders, create treatment plans consisting of exercise and hands-on therapy, and carry out treatment. They typically need a doctoral degree in physical therapy, beyond the undergraduate credential, and a license. Jobs are predicted to grow by about 39 percent. In 2011, physical therapists earned a mean $38.38 per hour or $79,830 per year. Most physical therapists worked in the offices of other health practitioners, which included their own offices. The highest pay was in management, scientific and technical consulting, averaging $43.76 per hour or $91,020 per year.

Occupational Therapists

Occupational therapists use everyday activities to help patients recover and improve the skills necessary for daily life and work. They observe patients doing tasks to assess problems, specify treatments and goals, recommend special equipment such as eating aids, and develop alternative methods of performing daily tasks. A master’s degree in occupational therapy is needed beyond the bachelor’s credential. All states require a license as well. Job opportunities will increase at about 33 percent. Occupational therapists averaged $36.05 per hour or $74,970 per year in 2011. Most worked in the offices of other health practitioners, including their own facilities. The highest wages were in home health care services, averaging $41.13 per horu or $85,540 per year.

Post-secondary Fitness Studies Teachers

Post-secondary fitness studies teachers instruct college students in subjects about physical education, recreation and leisure, including exercise, physiology and facilities management. They prepare lesson plans, lecture in front of students, administer tests and assign homework. They also monitor the progress of learners by compiling and recording grades. They maintain regular office hours outside the classroom for student consultation. According to O*NET OnLine, about 40 percent of these teachers had doctoral degrees, 32 percent had master's degrees and 20 percent had bachelor's degrees. The BLS states that in 2011, post-secondary fitness studies teachers made an average $63,820 per year. It did not compile hourly wages because these professionals did not work year-round full-time jobs. Most worked in colleges, universities and professional schools. The best pay was in junior colleges at an average $68,980 per year.

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