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Job outlook for exercise specialists in the United States
Exercise specialist job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected exercise specialist job growth rate is 9% from 2018-2028.
About 1,900 new jobs for exercise specialists are projected over the next decade.
Exercise specialist salaries have increased 6% for exercise specialists in the last 5 years.
There are over 6,503 exercise specialists currently employed in the United States.
There are 38,198 active exercise specialist job openings in the US.
The average exercise specialist salary is $41,669.
Are exercise specialist jobs in demand?
Exercise specialist job and salary trends over time
Exercise specialist jobs over time
Exercise specialist job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 6,503 | 0.00% |
| 2020 | 6,949 | 0.00% |
| 2019 | 6,901 | 0.00% |
| 2018 | 6,389 | 0.00% |
| 2017 | 5,972 | 0.00% |
Average exercise specialist salary over time
Exercise specialist salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $41,669 | $20.03 | +2.3% |
| 2025 | $40,749 | $19.59 | --0.2% |
| 2024 | $40,832 | $19.63 | +0.4% |
| 2023 | $40,683 | $19.56 | +3.7% |
| 2022 | $39,233 | $18.86 | +0.7% |
Exercise specialist jobs by state
Most common states for exercise specialists
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Vermont | 623,657 | 119 | 19% |
| 2 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 192 | 14% |
| 3 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 90 | 13% |
| 4 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 77 | 13% |
| 5 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 124 | 12% |
| 6 | Alaska | 739,795 | 90 | 12% |
| 7 | Iowa | 3,145,711 | 345 | 11% |
| 8 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 208 | 11% |
| 9 | West Virginia | 1,815,857 | 199 | 11% |
| 10 | Delaware | 961,939 | 108 | 11% |
| 11 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 93 | 11% |
| 12 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 677 | 10% |
| 13 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 91 | 9% |
| 14 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 70 | 9% |
| 15 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 698 | 8% |
| 16 | Arizona | 7,016,270 | 580 | 8% |
| 17 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 510 | 8% |
| 18 | Alabama | 4,874,747 | 367 | 8% |
| 19 | Kansas | 2,913,123 | 227 | 8% |
| 20 | New Mexico | 2,088,070 | 165 | 8% |
Most common cities for exercise specialists
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Milford | 1 | 4% | $37,278 |
| 2 | Richmond | 1 | 3% | $44,231 |
| 3 | Commerce | 1 | 2% | $35,059 |
| 4 | Rowlett | 1 | 2% | $35,511 |
| 5 | Shawnee | 1 | 2% | $39,110 |
| 6 | Cambridge | 1 | 1% | $36,914 |
| 7 | Corona | 1 | 1% | $57,642 |
| 8 | Davenport | 1 | 1% | $44,307 |
| 9 | Grand Rapids | 1 | 1% | $35,035 |
| 10 | Sioux Falls | 1 | 1% | $37,859 |
| 11 | Des Moines | 1 | 0% | $44,273 |
Exercise Specialist job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of exercise specialist experts
Xavier University
East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania
Weber State University
University of Kentucky
University of Akron
Hope College
East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania
Willamette University
Endicott College
Concordia University
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
University of Illinois at Chicago
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania
Meredith College
Andrews University
Saint Mary's College of California
What general advice would you give to an Exercise Specialist?
John Wright: The field of Kinesiology is a remarkably diverse field. Students graduating with a degree in Kinesiology have a unique opportunity to pursue myriad opportunities. Currently, graduates are prepared to pursue graduate education or employment in fields as diverse as medicine, physical therapy, occupational therapy, athletic training, strength & conditioning / human performance, personal training, and corporate or medical wellness. With such a variety of opportunities, I strongly recommend that students entering the field try a variety of career options through a combination of field experiences, internships opportunities, and employment opportunities. Only after sampling the different specialities can students truly realize their passion! Often students enter their academic career with limited exposure to the field, and subsequently, they may feel pigeon-holed and/or limited in their career opportunities. I often tell my students to keep an open mind and take advantage of every opportunity presented! You never know when inspiration will strike, and that area of specialization that wasn’t initially on your radar might actually become your true calling!
What Exercise Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
John Wright: The field of Kinesiology has evolved significantly over the past 35 years. Specialization with specific populations is necessary in order to really make a name for yourself. Regardless of which populations you would like to work with (i.e.: Older Adults, Military/Tactical Strength & Conditioning, Competitive Sports / Human Performance, Corporate Wellness, Pediatric / Adolescent), there are common themes that have become essential for success in the field. Graduates in the field of Kinesiology should become very familiar with postural analysis, Functional Movement Screening, and corrective exercise. Additionally, an emphasis on injury prevention, exercise epidemiology (Exercise is Medicine), and longevity and health-span have become emerging trends. Finally, other than the Kinesiology-specific skills, competence in social media and marketing has become ubiquitous as a set of “soft-skills” in order to reach and match with emerging markets.
What general advice would you give to an Exercise Specialist?
Chad Killian PhD: The ability to critically evaluate and apply the use of technology to support effective practice is now mandatory in almost every field, including kinesiology. It will be important for kinesiology professionals to have the ability to consider if/when/how these technologies can/should be used in their practice.
What Exercise Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Chad Killian PhD: Kinesiology professionals can pursue specializations that extend beyond their baseline degree and certification. By investing in reputable professional development and specialized training, professionals can ensure they remain competitive and make a positive impact in their field.
What will help Exercise Specialists increase their earning potential?
Chad Killian PhD: Regardless of the specific field a Kinesiology graduate enters, it is crucial to stay informed about current societal trends and emerging research. It will be essential to actively engage with students or clients to ensure practices are consistently aligned with their evolving needs.
What Exercise Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Bailey Palmer: Some kinesiology professional need a post-graduate degree, such as a Master’s in Exercise Physiology or Human Performance or even a doctorate in Physical Therapy, to acquire a job. This can be daunting or challenging for some to attain. Most kinesiologists help people with functional limitations and find it very rewarding to improve their quality of life through therapeutic interventions aimed at enhancing movement ability and physical performance.
What will help Exercise Specialists increase their earning potential?
Bailey Palmer: Employment for professionals in kinesiology is expected to grow by over 15% in the next ten years. People are living longer which means a higher quality of life needs to be attained in those later years. Kinesiology professionals can help to improve mobility, rehab injuries, and increase fitness levels in these individuals to improve quality of life.
What general advice would you give to an Exercise Specialist?
Ashley Varol: Kinesiologists have a wide variety of settings they can work in, and no two days will ever be the same. The role is very flexible with the type of client they may work with and as the world becomes more interested in preventive health and wellness, the market will continue to need individuals who understand the human body and how to move it, with and without disease, illness or injury.
What Exercise Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Ashley Varol: A kinesiologist is someone who creates exercise programming with movements specific to an individual to meet a goal – whether it be to enhance posture, prevent or rehabilitate from an injury, improve elements of sports performance, or weight loss. Day to day life includes performing assessments to understand strength, flexibility, endurance, as well as overall movement pattern assessment to look for muscle development and imbalances. It will also include creative time, developing exercise programs that match the goals of the client, and requires coaching and cuing movement effectively while providing excellent service to their clients/members/patients.
What will help Exercise Specialists increase their earning potential?
Ashley Varol: There is a wide variety of employment options which is great as you can avoid burnout by changing setting/client type, but can also mean working “off” hours – many people want to exercise before or after work or on lunch breaks, so the schedule can be a little bit stretched or non-linear.
Dr. Shala Davis Ph.D., FACSM
Professor/Department ChairEast Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania
Sports, Kinesiology, And Physical Education/Fitness
What general advice would you give to an Exercise Specialist?
Dr. Shala Davis Ph.D., FACSM: Get as much experience working with varied populations as possible to enhance your interpersonal communication skills as well as your clinical competencies. In addition, sitting for and passing a professional credentialing exam demonstrates your commitment to professional development.
What Exercise Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Shala Davis Ph.D., FACSM: The field is expanding and the new professional needs to adapt along with the contemporary trends. Communication, varied exercise programming, use of technology and the ability to motivate clients/patients to be compliant with exercise will be the key to success in the next few years.
What will help Exercise Specialists increase their earning potential?
Dr. Shala Davis Ph.D., FACSM: Holding a professional credential and having varied skills to work with apparently health adults and patients with clinical conditions makes the professional more marketable.
What general advice would you give to an Exercise Specialist?
Saori Hanaki: Those who are going into fitness and/or coaching-related areas definitely want to consider getting certifications from respected organizations such as the American College of Sports Medicine and the National Strength & Conditioning Association. I would specifically recommend getting certifications that require a college degree and/or exercise science-specific coursework since many fitness certifications including personal training certifications can be obtained without a college degree. Additionally, extensive practical experiences in health and fitness assessments, exercise prescriptions, and client/patient interactions through internships would be a plus.
What Exercise Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Saori Hanaki: Keep open-minded. Exercise science/kinesiology is an interdisciplinary field of study that allows you to explore options in different professional areas including fitness, coaching, healthcare-related fields, and education. With experiences after college, your professional interests likely evolve.
What will help Exercise Specialists increase their earning potential?
Saori Hanaki: As with any other professions, transferable skills including information literacy - the ability to locate, assess the credibility of information available, and making a sound decision based on information available will be critical in exercise science professionals. This allows you to continue updating the knowledge and the abilities to perform responsibilities effectively and safely, whether it is personal training, providing clinical care, or conducting research. The ability to work in a team/collaborate is another important skill for anyone who wants to be successful in exercise science and related fields.
What general advice would you give to an Exercise Specialist?
Rosie Lanphere Ph.D., C.S.C.S.: Careers in Exercise Science can range from positions at a local gym to working with athletes and coaches in international sports. A bachelor’s degree in this field is very versatile because of the basic science focus and the applied science practical skills you have probably acquired in your major courses. The best advice I can give to students in this field is to gain credible certifications and licenses from organizations such as the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). These are globally regarded organizations and credentials and will soon become the standard for employment. In 2030, only students that graduate from NSCA and ACSM accredited programs will be able to sit for certification exams offered by these organizations which will strengthen your attractiveness for employment if attained.
What Exercise Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Rosie Lanphere Ph.D., C.S.C.S.: To maximize your potential for salary it is important to collect as many volunteer and internship experiences as possible. Experience will be the major factor in salary negotiations but unfortunately, as a new graduate you may have little paid experience. As a student or new graduate, volunteering is a wonderful way to network and gain the trust and respect of potential for hiring. It also helps you to determine if that career is right for you. Be on-time, have a great attitude, and approach the business with a “how can I help your company” perspective and you will see how much easier it will be for you to succeed.
What will help Exercise Specialists increase their earning potential?
Rosie Lanphere Ph.D., C.S.C.S.: As mentioned previously, certifications and licenses will be vital for those wishing to gain employment very soon. Depending on the type of certification, skills can range from demonstrating and recognizing proper resistance training techniques for strength and conditioning coaches to ECG interpretation in clinical exercise physiology settings. Exercise testing and interpretation for the 5 components of fitness (i.e. body composition, cardiovascular fitness, muscular fitness, flexibility, and neuromotor fitness) are also important to understand and be proficient in.
What general advice would you give to an Exercise Specialist?
Ronald Otterstetter Ph.D., FACSM: Being proficient in the latest technology and its use within the field. Staying up to date on the latest research and being able to apply the information into everyday interactions and scenarios. Being flexible and skilled to work with different populations to help achieve whatever their exercise goals might be.
What Exercise Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Ronald Otterstetter Ph.D., FACSM: Try to maximize your experiences before entering the field. Be proactive and try to expose yourself to as many skills and settings as possible, so that when you encounter it in your job, you'll know how to deal with it. The more expertise you bring to the job and acquire during your work, the more valuable you will be as an employee.
What will help Exercise Specialists increase their earning potential?
Ronald Otterstetter Ph.D., FACSM: Take every opportunity to make yourself a better professional. Seek to learn skills that will make you so integral to the company that you can’t be replaced. Work on people skills: both with the ones you work with and the ones you work for. Be open to advice and constructive criticism. They will both make you better in the long run.
Dr. Brian Rider Ph.D, CSCS, FACSM
Associate Professor & Exercise Science Program DirectorHope College
Sports, Kinesiology, And Physical Education/Fitness
What general advice would you give to an Exercise Specialist?
Dr. Brian Rider Ph.D, CSCS, FACSM: The professor did not provide a specific answer to this question.
What Exercise Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Brian Rider Ph.D, CSCS, FACSM: Most students who are graduating with a degree in Kinesiology or Exercise Science pursue graduate school to become Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, or Athletic Trainers. Others become personal trainers or strength conditioning coaches. Some work in medical centers in cardiac rehabilitation units.
What will help Exercise Specialists increase their earning potential?
Dr. Brian Rider Ph.D, CSCS, FACSM: The field of kinesiology and/or exercise science is important due to the aging population dealing with lifestyle diseases. Exercise is crucial in managing and preventing these diseases.
Dr. Matthew Miltenberger PhD, CSCS, ATC
Associate ProfessorEast Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania
Sports, Kinesiology, And Physical Education/Fitness
What general advice would you give to an Exercise Specialist?
Dr. Matthew Miltenberger PhD, CSCS, ATC: Maximizing salary comes down to a few things: 1. Education/ degree having an MS enhances starting salaries. 2. Certifications through national organizations like NSCA and ACSM. 3. Specialize within the field, find your area. 4. Market your skills on your resume… what can you do from a technology standpoint, what equipment are you proficient in using, special coursework or certificates. 5. Get involved while in school, do an internship or several, make contact with experts in the field, volunteer within the field. Get your name out there and make connections!
What Exercise Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Matthew Miltenberger PhD, CSCS, ATC: Without a doubt technology is the future, using force plates, 3D camera systems, accelerometers, equipment like catapult and others are just the beginning. Tracking athletes in real time, assessing fatigue, performance readiness, sleep quality and many more are here now and only getting more advanced. The other aspect is with robotics, prosthetics, equipment that improves quality of life/ mobility, it is amazing what kinesiologists, exercise scientists, and biomechanists are doing!
What will help Exercise Specialists increase their earning potential?
Dr. Matthew Miltenberger PhD, CSCS, ATC: A couple pieces of advice I would give is trust your education and be confident in the skills you learned, the next is really important, be a life long learner, continue to learn new skills, challenge yourself to grow. Lastly, I would say that the field of kinesiology is so diverse and ever changing, find your specialty/ niche and become the expert!
Michael Lockard Ph.D.
Professor of Exercise and Health ScienceWillamette University
Sports, Kinesiology, And Physical Education/Fitness
What general advice would you give to an Exercise Specialist?
Michael Lockard Ph.D.: Of the many potential career paths seen within Kinesiology and Exercise Science, they commonly involve working directly with people (patients, athletes, clients, or students) to help improve their health, function, and overall well-being. Regardless of the specific career, this can be extremely rewarding on a daily basis.
What Exercise Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Michael Lockard Ph.D.: In the United States, the term kinesiologist can be used to describe someone who has studied/earned a degree in Kinesiology; however, the term does not describe a specific profession. Kinesiology is broadly defined as the study of human movement; more specifically how physical activity affects health, function, quality of life, and society as a whole. As a broad discipline, many students earn degrees in Kinesiology, Exercise Science, Human Physiology, and others. There are numerous career pathways that someone may enter with a degree in Kinesiology. These careers commonly include physical therapy, athletic training, occupational therapy, medicine, sports psychology, public health, coaching, personal training, clinical research, cardiac rehabilitation, biomechanics, and exercise physiology among many others.
What will help Exercise Specialists increase their earning potential?
Michael Lockard Ph.D.: As a discipline, Kinesiology and Exercise Science have experienced significant growth beyond that of other sciences over the last few decades. This growth has coincided with the continued growth of related fields such as allied health, rehabilitation, sports performance, and training. There continues to be significant demand within these fields for the foreseeable future.
What general advice would you give to an Exercise Specialist?
Matthew Ibrahim Ph.D.(c): Become as versatile as possible. That's going to separate you from your peers. We live in a day and age where having one set of skills simply isn't enough. It is imperative that you develop as many skills as possible that pertain to the career field, which in turn will make you more valuable. The more value you bring to the table, the greater the asset you become to a company. It's as simple as that.
What Exercise Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Matthew Ibrahim Ph.D.(c): Without a doubt, I would strongly encourage students and up-and-coming professionals to build soft skills through effective communication, develop coaching skills through efficient instruction, and lastly, improve their public speaking skills. Notice how all 3 of these skills are related to the communication side of things. Ultimately, this is where I feel most strongly that we can improve as a whole, especially with the rise in technology. After you've mastered these 3 skills, I would encourage you to then begin to learn the nuances of the technology side of things in our field since that area is only going to grow the more it is around.
What will help Exercise Specialists increase their earning potential?
Matthew Ibrahim Ph.D.(c): If you're about to graduate with a degree in Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology or Kinesiology, my top 3 recommendations would be: #1 - Be yourself. Avoid trying to mimic others in the field. Steer clear of a simple 'copy and paste'. Most importantly, forge a path of your own. I know that this may sound too simple, but I firmly believe in being yourself in every avenue of life. Ultimately, you will attract what you exude; therefore, exude energy, enthusiasm, curiosity and a deep passion for your work. #2 - Be patient. So many young, up-and-coming professionals in our field (i.e., Strength and Conditioning, Physical Therapy, Athletic Training, etc.) seem to be in a rush and want to leap past the journey to the end result. In my humble opinion, it is the journey that teaches you life's most valuable lessons, especially as they pertain to this career field. Instead of leaping past these valuable career lessons, lean into them, learn from them and grow from them. #3 - Seek mentorship. After graduating with a degree in this field, you may feel lost, unsure of your next steps or confused. Trust me, this is very typical. I've been there before as well. One thing that truly helped me along my path when I was in your shoes was to seek out mentors in and out of the career field. In doing so, I was able to develop from a professional standpoint, and I was also able to grow my overall network. In my book, it was a huge win-win for my career, especially in the early stages. Ultimately, this need for mentorship is why I created my mentorship program for students and up-and-coming professionals like yourself: Athletic Performance University (APU).
What general advice would you give to an Exercise Specialist?
Maryse Fortin PhD, CAT(C): Make sure you individualize your approach when working with clients. It is critical to fully understand their needs, psychosocial background, and goals. It’s also important for kinesiologists to stay on top of research and the latest clinical practices/standards. Getting involved in research is a great way to continue learning throughout your career.
What Exercise Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Maryse Fortin PhD, CAT(C): Be proactive, continue to expand your network and do not close any doors or opportunities that present themselves. There are many interesting job opportunities in different areas in health and fitness-related sectors.
What will help Exercise Specialists increase their earning potential?
Maryse Fortin PhD, CAT(C): Be proactive, look for opportunities that may be “outside the box” and don’t be scared to start your own business.
What general advice would you give to an Exercise Specialist?
Dr. Joshua Wooten Ph.D.: People like the opportunity to help others improve their physical and mental well-being. However, the salaries can vary depending on the specific specialization within Kinesiology.
What Exercise Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Joshua Wooten Ph.D.: Kinesiology is the broad study of human movement. Graduates can specialize in areas such as Exercise Physiology, Exercise and Sport Psychology, or Physical Education and Coaching Pedagogy. They can work in a variety of settings like cardiac rehabilitation, personal training, strength and conditioning, or mental performance coaching.
What will help Exercise Specialists increase their earning potential?
Dr. Joshua Wooten Ph.D.: Kinesiology offers diverse career opportunities in helping people physically and mentally. Graduates can pursue certifications like Certified Exercise Physiologists, Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialists, Certified Mental Performance Coaches, or enhance their coaching and teaching abilities.
What general advice would you give to an Exercise Specialist?
Dr. Josh Miller: Kinesiology is an umbrella term used in our field that describes the analysis of human movement, anatomical, biomechanical, pathological, and the neurophysiological aspects of movement. Within Kinesiology there are many educational opportunities that our students can pursue if they choose to in professional schools (i.e. physical therapy, occupational therapy, medical school, physician's assistant, etc.), graduate school (i.e. Master's degree in a specialized discipline of the field - exercise physiology (the study of how the body responds to exercise), biomechanics (the study of movement), or sport psychology), or find a position (i.e. personal trainer, health coach, strength coach, etc.). It is difficult to answer your question of what does a Kinesiologist do on a day-to-day basis. This would depend upon the job that they have. A good example would be someone who works in Cardiac-Pulmonary Rehabilitation. On an average day, the individual would work with patients that have had a cardiovascular event (heart surgery, stents, arrhthymias, and other related issues) in i-hour classes that incorporate aerobic exercise, stretching, and some resistance training. There may be some education to help with making changes to lifestyle (i.e. diet, stress, etc.). Additionally, they may work with patients that have just had an event or surgery.
What will help Exercise Specialists increase their earning potential?
Dr. Josh Miller: The job market is unlimited. The student can pursue working with clients as a personal trainer or strength coach in a specific sport. This could be working with youth athletes or high school athletes that are transitioning into college sport or college athletes preparing for the sport specific combine. Another example is a student that has completed a Bachelor's degree and goes to Physician's Assistants school can use their education on exercise and nutrition to help educate their patients in lifestyle management. The ability to use their education from the Bachelor's program in their graduate programming only makes the student a great candidate for a program and then when they graduate from the program there is a potential to have knowledge that is not always taught in these programs.
Jonathan Anning PhD, FNSCA, CSCS*D
Associate ProfessorSlippery Rock University of Pennsylvania
Rehabilitation And Therapeutic Professions
What general advice would you give to an Exercise Specialist?
Jonathan Anning PhD, FNSCA, CSCS*D: To maximize salary potential when starting a career in Exercise Science, students should consider investing in advanced degrees and certifications along with specialized skills to help distinguish themselves from others in the field. Gaining practical experiences through volunteer opportunities, internships, field-related jobs, and professional organizations will help build a strong resume while establishing a professional network. Staying up-to-date with the latest research and technological advancements will also make students more appealing. In addition, students should always be prepared to negotiate their salary by confidently presenting their qualifications and the unique value they bring to their job.
What Exercise Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Jonathan Anning PhD, FNSCA, CSCS*D: In the next 3-5 years, skills in data analytics and technological integration will become increasingly vital across all sectors of Exercise Science, including clinical, corporate, fitness, and sport industries. As wearable devices, fitness apps, and other technology become more advanced, the ability to analyze and interpret the data will be imperative for creating more personalized and effective programs. In addition, virtual coaching and telehealth services will grow in importance, necessitating proficiency in remote communication and program management. An in-depth understanding of exercise physiology and biomechanics will also be essential for developing evidence-based practices that can enhance performance, improve health outcomes, and optimize wellness initiatives.
What will help Exercise Specialists increase their earning potential?
Jonathan Anning PhD, FNSCA, CSCS*D: Starting a career in Exercise Science is an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact on people's lives. My advice to new graduates is to never stop learning. Stay updated with the latest research and pursue masters or doctoral degrees and relevant certifications to enhance your knowledge, skills and abilities. As an Exercise Science major at Slippery Rock University, students develop critical thinking skills through a comprehensive curriculum covering anatomy, exercise physiology, physics, biomechanics, and chemistry. These foundational sciences are applied to areas like aerobic and resistance training leadership, fitness assessment, program design, wellness coaching, and nutrition along with preparing them for complex roles in clinical settings while working with special populations. A transition part of their education involves working as a personal trainer for a semester under faculty guidance before completing a 480-hour internship at a fitness, sport performance, corporate, or clinical location. These experiences are crucial for their professional growth prior to graduation. However, achieving this level of education is just the beginning. Graduates must commit to continually learning, gaining hands-on experiences, and refining their communication skills so that they can build a successful and fulfilling career in Exercise Science.
What Exercise Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Heather Sanderson Ed.D., CSCS (she/her/hers): I always teach students to ask for three things when negotiating a salary - 1. Ask for something you need (higher pay, flexible hours, telecommute, professional development funds, etc) 2. Ask for something you want but don't need (a specific type of computer/phone, office location, moving expense, specific type of benefit), 3. Ask for something to enhance your position (better title, bonuses, more vacation, PTO). As a women's college, our students must work on their negotiation skills as statistically employers pay women less and give them fewer incentives. So I educate our students to know their worth and be proactive to ensure their success.
What will help Exercise Specialists increase their earning potential?
Heather Sanderson Ed.D., CSCS (she/her/hers): Depending upon if the student plans to attend a post-graduate program in the health or medical field (most of ours plan that direction), I would say it is important to start working towards a career while in college. For example, students should attend conferences to network with peers and professionals in the field. These connections will help when the time comes to look for employment opportunities. Furthermore, students should obtain certifications in addition to degrees as many employers in kinesiology require these credentials beyond a bachelor degree. Students should also take advantage of co-curricular leadership and research experiences to build transferable skills in the workplace. These experiences can give students an edge on obtaining a full-time position.
Nathan Hess PT, DPT, Ph.D. Candidate
Assistant ProfessorAndrews University
Rehabilitation And Therapeutic Professions
What will help Exercise Specialists increase their earning potential?
Nathan Hess PT, DPT, Ph.D. Candidate: A PT evaluates and treats patients with mostly neurological or musculoskeletal injuries, focusing on improving mobility, maximizing function, and managing pain.
What general advice would you give to an Exercise Specialist?
Dr. Elizabeth O'Neill: Like many fields, the integration of technology continues to expand in Exercise Science. Being versed in technology specific to one's area of exercise science will be an advantage. Additionally, given the aging demographics, the need for clinically experienced practitioners is growing.
What Exercise Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Elizabeth O'Neill: Hopefully to start, students choose to attend institutions that provide extensive applied experiences through high quality internships. These dramatically enhance professional growth, offer extensive networking, and build one's resume. Obtaining reputable credentialing (certifications) will open doors and is a good first step. Being willing and able to diversify to have multiple revenue streams for income can expand your salary potential. There are a lot of unique ways to make money in the field, so looking for those opportunities can make a big difference.
Derek Marks PhD
Associate Professor, Director Graduate Kinesiology, Director Human Performance LaboratorySaint Mary's College of California
Sports, Kinesiology, And Physical Education/Fitness
What general advice would you give to an Exercise Specialist?
Derek Marks PhD: Sadly, kinesiology is not a field associated with high salaries and often 'side-gigs' (e.g. consulting outside of regular career) are necessary to boost a low salary. For those going into client-based personal practices (e.g. personal training) my advice is to never undersell yourself and believe you are worth top-dollar. In the more structured career options like clinical hospital work or university-based strength and conditioning positions, it is great to find ways to get some work experience, like an internship, to add to your resume and bump starting pay. Often, with careers like physical and occupational therapy, there are not many ways to start higher-up on the salary ladder due to their pay structure.
What Exercise Specialist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Derek Marks PhD: Our field is SO diverse, there is no way to pin point even a handful. Generally, I would say staying on top of (current) technologies in ways to communicate, make assessments, and practice your trade is essential. Wearable biometric devices are just one example of technology that can be incredibly valuable in our field and failure to understand how to utilize wearables could mean losing clients or not getting a position.
What will help Exercise Specialists increase their earning potential?
Derek Marks PhD: I generally have 3 pieces of advice I share with my graduating students. 1) be flexible - our field does not always have perfectly defined career options and sometimes you will need to take on roles you may not have thought of before in order to get the experience you need to move forward. 2) Be patient - there is often a process involved with getting experience and earning the qualification to progress to your 'dream' position. It takes time and dedication to get there. 3) Be creative - building on point #1 above, there is not always a perfect job out there and sometimes you have to go out and make it for yourself. Creating your own niche or finding positions that you can make for you can be very rewarding.