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Exercise physiologist

An exercise physiologist uses exercise and physical activity to help people improve health, manage chronic conditions and enhance physical function.
Health and Community
Average weekly salary
$2052
Future demand
Strong
Most common education level
Bachelor degree

What does an exercise physiologist do?

Exercise physiologists are healthcare professionals with a passion for helping others. Using their extensive knowledge of the human body, they help clients achieve specific health outcomes by developing exercise and lifestyle programs. Exercise physiology might help someone with a complex health condition, or support the rehabilitation of someone recovering from an injury. Clinical exercise physiologists can also work in the fields of professional sport or sports medicine research. Working in this profession, you would help people of all ages and with a variety of needs and health conditions improve their physical wellbeing and overall health.

Is a career as an exercise physiologist right for me?

If you have a strong interest in health and wellbeing, enjoy working with people, and are motivated to help others improve their quality of life, this could be a rewarding career path.

Other skills and attributes beneficial for this role include:

Analytical thinking
An ability to analyse and interpret information.
Communication
Clear written and verbal communication skills, supported by strong interpersonal skills.
Empathy and working with people
The ability to build positive relationships and support others effectively.
Industry knowledge
A sound awareness and understanding of industry and trends.

Problem-solving and decision-making
The ability to identify issues, evaluate options, and make informed decisions.

Workplace readiness
The ability to work effectively in demanding, practical, or physically challenging environments.

How to become an exercise physiologist

Typically, becoming an exercise physiologist starts with a bachelor degree in exercise science, clinical exercise physiology or a related field. Gaining practical experience through clinical placements is essential for developing the skills and knowledge needed to assess clients and prescribe exercise programs for a range of health conditions.

Every journey to study is individual, and there are several paths to becoming an exercise physiologist. A common path to becoming an exercise physiologist

  1. Complete a bachelor degree in exercise science, clinical exercise physiology or a related field.
  2. Develop skills in exercise assessment, prescription and rehabilitation.
  3. Gain practical experience through clinical placements and industry learning.
  4. Complete any additional study required for professional accreditation.
  5. Apply for exercise physiology roles and continue developing specialist expertise through professional practice.

Accreditation and qualifications

Exercise physiologists commonly obtain accreditation as an Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP) through . This accreditation demonstrates that practitioners have met recognised professional and educational standards.

How long does it take to become an exercise physiologist?

Typically, it takes a three-year bachelor's degree in fields such as exercise science, sports science, exercise and rehabilitation, health science, human physiology or a related discipline to enter the field. However, everyone’s path is different and if you are already working in a related field, you may choose to pursue a graduate certificate which will take you less time to complete than a bachelor degree.

Start your journey with 91仓库

Prepare for an exercise physiology career with a 91仓库 exercise science degree and develop the clinical, analytical and patient-focused skills needed to improve health and wellbeing.

Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology (Honours)
Go to degree
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Responsibilities and work settings

Day-to-day responsibilities

Assessing clients' health, fitness and physical function.

Developing personalised exercise programs and rehabilitation plans.

Supporting people with chronic health conditions and injuries.

Monitoring client progress and adjusting exercise interventions.

Educating clients about physical activity and healthy lifestyle behaviours.

Conducting fitness and functional capacity assessments.

Collaborating with healthcare professionals to support patient outcomes.

Maintaining client records and clinical documentation.

Where you might work

Private healthcare providers, clinics and practices

Public hospitals and health services

Community health organisations

Sport and recreation organisations

Disability services providers

Aged care providers

Universities and higher education providers

Exercise physiologist FAQs

When researching how to become an exercise physiologist, you will need to look at studying an undergraduate degree in fields such as exercise science, sports science, exercise and rehabilitation, health science, or a related discipline. Many people also choose to pursue further education through a postgraduate or research degree to further enhance their exercise physiology career. Practical experience through internships or clinical placements can also be beneficial, and this if often integrated into your degree. 

The salary of an exercise physiologist can vary depending on factors such as experience, education, location, and employer. Refer to the salary information on this page for further details.

Exercise physiologists have a steady demand. With an aging population and increasing emphasis on preventive healthcare, there is a growing need for professionals in Nursing and Allied Health who can design and implement exercise programs tailored to individual needs and goals. Employment opportunities for exercise physiologists can be found in various settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centres, sports facilities, and corporate wellness programs.

Yes, an exercise physiologist can pursue a career as a personal trainer. The knowledge and skills acquired through education and training in exercise physiology can provide a solid foundation for working with clients to improve their fitness, health, and overall well-being. However, it's important to note that the specific requirements and certifications for personal trainers may vary.

Related careers

Sport scientist
Strength and conditioning coach
Physiotherapist

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Disclaimer: 91仓库’s Career Finder is a guide only. While reasonable care is taken to ensure accuracy, career information may change over time. Career statistics are sourced from and . © Commonwealth of Australia. Licensed under CC BY 4.0. Salary figures listed on this page are in Australian Dollars (AUD).