Beyond High School

Here's a list of programs that you should consider if you're interested in this career:

• Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology
• Exercise Science and Kinesiology
• Kinesiotherapy/Kinesiotherapist

Education Level

Education training and experience are required at different levels for success in different occupations.

Bachelor's degree

Exercise physiologists typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in exercise physiology, exercise science, kinesiology, or another healthcare and related field. Master’s degree programs also are available.

Insider Info

Additional Information

Currently, there are no governing bodies that certify specific college or university programs in exercise physiology.

However, the American Society of Exercise Physiologists (ASEP) does recommend students have a "strong science background so that the student can fully comprehend and appreciate the complexities of more advanced coursework in the exercise physiology area."

ASEP hopes to make accreditation the norm for exercise physiologists in the future. The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) also offers accreditation, which can go a long way in distinguishing yourself from others when looking for a job.

ASEP recommends exercise physiology students consider the following courses to make up their basic science component: college algebra, college trigonometry, biology, human anatomy and physiology, general or cell biology, chemistry, physics and computer science.

A variety of exercise physiology courses are also required. These can include: first aid, movement anatomy, kinesiology, biomechanics, introductory and advanced exercise physiology, exercise testing and prescription, exercise biochemistry, sports nutrition, statistics and research design.

Extra Requirements

State licensing requirements vary for exercise physiology. Check with your state’s licensing agency. Employers typically require exercise physiologists to have Basic Life Support (BLS) certification or Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certification, both of which include training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Optional certifications are available, such as those offered by the American Society of Exercise Physiologists (ASEP) and the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM).

For additional information, visit these websites:

• http://www.acsm.org
• http://www.asep.org