Employment of community and public health professionals is projected to grow 11 percent from 2012 to 2022, faster than the average for all occupations. In fact, by the year 2020, the U.S. is expected to have quality job openings for around 3,500 new Exercise and Fitness professionals. If you have a commitment to working toward the improvement of overall client health, the Exercise industry is an open gateway of immense opportunity for you. One very interesting aspect of this field is that you will have an opportunity to develop programs that help people recover or improve body function, composition, and flexibility.
Also, in this area of health, you can determine your daily work schedules. Over half of individuals who choose this field are self-employed. For well-trained candidates who enjoy the certainty of their schedule, time with their family, friends and themselves, a career in the human performance arena can be extremely rewarding. Although a profession in human performance is often demanding, this industry offers benefits of a good salary and a long-term career. Human Performance will always need the energetic commitment of concerned, knowledgeable professionals.
Some of the most human performance jobs include:
- Exercise Physiologists– Salary: $47,010. According to BLS reports, Exercise physiologists, sometimes called kinesiotherapists, work to improve overall patient health. Many of their patients suffer from health problems such as cardiovascular disease or pulmonary (lung) disease. Exercise physiologists provide health education and exercise plans to improve key health indicators.
- Athletic Trainers – Salary: $44,670. Athletic trainers work with people of all ages and all skill levels, from young children to soldiers and professional athletes. Athletic trainers are usually one of the first healthcare providers on the scene when injuries occur. They work under the direction of a licensed physician and with other healthcare providers, often discussing specific injuries and treatment options or evaluating and treating patients, as directed by a physician. Some athletic trainers meet with a team physician or consulting physician regularly.
- Recreational Therapies – Salary - $45,890. Recreational therapists plan, direct, and coordinate recreation-based treatment programs for people with disabilities, injuries, or illnesses. These therapists use a variety of modalities, including arts and crafts; drama, music, and dance; sports and games; aquatics; and community outings to help maintain or improve a patient’s physical, social, and emotional well-being.
- Coaches and Scouts – Salary: $31,000. Coaches teach professional and amateur athletes the fundamental skills of individual and team sports. They hold training and practice sessions to improve the athletes' form, technique, skills, and stamina. Along with refining athletes’ individual skills, coaches are also responsible for instilling in their players the importance of good sportsmanship, a competitive spirit, and teamwork.
- Fitness Trainers and Instructors– Salary: $36,160. Fitness trainers and instructors lead, instruct, and motivate individuals or groups in exercise activities, including cardiovascular exercises (exercises for the heart and blood circulation), strength training, and stretching. They work with people of all ages and skill levels.
By completing your AS with NTCC and your BS with A&M here on campus these positions are not out of your reach!
