High School

Students interested in a career in exercise physiology can begin to prepare themselves by taking relevant classes while in high school. Classes such as anatomy, physiology, and biology can give you insight on how the muscles and skeletal structure of the body work together for movement and control. Classes in nutrition and health will provide background on how food and exercise play a vital role in the body's well-being.

Postsecondary Training

In today's competitive world, having a master's degree in exercise physiology or exercise science is almost a requirement for the best jobs. In some work settings, such as academia, a Ph.D. is the norm. Some students study exercise physiology as a solid foundation for further education in physical therapy, medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, or chiropractic study. Programs in exercise physiology and exercise science are located throughout the United States. Typical courses include physiology of exercise and sport, advanced exercise physiology, cardiovascular physiology, fitness assessment and prescription, exercise metabolism, kinesiology, research design, biomechanics, environmental physiology, nutrition, and exercise and special populations. 

While there are many two- and four-year programs in exercise physiology, only four are accredited by the American Society of Exercise Physiologists: DeSales University (Center Valley, Pennsylvania),Marquette University (Marquette, Wisconsin), Midwestern State University (Wichita Falls, Texas), and West Liberty University (West Liberty, West Virginia).

Certification

Some colleges and universities offer certificates in exercise physiology, exercise science, or related fields. Contact schools in your area to inquire about available programs. 

Other Education or Training

It's important for exercise physiologists to stay abreast of new developments in their field, be it new exercise techniques or cutting-edge technology. The American Society of Exercise Physiologists, Clinical Exercise Physiology Association, and the American College of Sports Medicine offer continuing education opportunities to exercise physiologists and related professionals. Contact these organizations for more information.

Certification or Licensing

The American Society of Exercise Physiologists offers voluntary board certification to exercise physiologists who have an academic degree in exercise physiology, exercise science, kinesiology, sport science, human performance, or a related field; pass an online examination; and meet other requirements.

The American College of Sports Medicine offers the following certification credentials to exercise physiologists: certified exercise physiologist and certified clinical exercise physiologist. Applicants must pass an examination, have a minimum number of hours of clinical experience, and satisfy other requirements. 

The American Council on Exercise also several certifications that may be of interest to exercise physiologists, including the certified medical exercise specialist designation.

Some employers may require that exercise physiologists be certified in CPR or as a basic life support provider.

Exercise physiologists in Louisiana must be licensed; some other states have pending legislation to create formal licensure requirements.

Students should obtain as much experience in the field as possible by participating in summer internships and part-time jobs at a medical facility, school, fitness center, or other organization that employs exercise physiologists.

Exercise physiologists must be experts regarding fitness and health. They must know the appropriate exercise prescription for each physical ailment—from arthritis and asthma to fibromyalgia and congestive heart disease. They must have keen observation skills in order to assess the physical health and fitness progress of their patients. Exercise physiologists also need outgoing personalities since they interact closely with their patients, as well as physicians and other health care professionals. They must know how to motivate and inspire their patients—many of whom may be afraid to begin an exercise regime after a serious illness or injury or who are simply uninterested in exercising.