Overview of Exercise Physiologist Salaries
Exercise physiologists are healthcare professionals who specialize in helping patients reach their health goals through physical activity. They work with people of all ages and abilities to create tailored exercise plans that improve patient’s overall wellbeing. But what kind of salary can you expect as an exercise physiologist? This article explores average salaries, benefits, and educational requirements for exercise physiologists, as well as trends in the field.
Definition of an Exercise Physiologist
An exercise physiologist is a healthcare professional who specializes in the science behind physical activity. They use their knowledge of physiology and nutrition to design individualized exercise programs for people of all ages and fitness levels. Exercise physiologists typically work for hospitals, private clinics, or fitness centers, but some may also work in research or teaching positions.
Average Salary Information
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for exercise physiologists was $49,270 in May 2019. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $30,440, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $79,660. Generally, salaries increase with experience and additional certifications.
Examining the Factors that Affect Exercise Physiologist Salaries
Several factors can affect an exercise physiologist’s salary. These include education level, experience, location, and additional certifications.
Education and Experience
Most employers require exercise physiologists to have a bachelor’s degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field. Some may also require a master’s degree. In addition, many employers prefer applicants with prior experience in the field. Those with more education and experience tend to earn higher salaries.
Location
Exercise physiologists’ salaries can also vary depending on where they work. For example, those who work in urban areas tend to earn higher salaries than those who work in rural areas. Additionally, salaries in certain states are higher than others.
Additional Certification
Many employers also prefer exercise physiologists who have specialized certifications, such as the American College of Sports Medicine Certified Exercise Physiologist (ACSM CEP). These certifications can lead to higher salaries and more job opportunities.
Comparing Exercise Physiologist Salaries Across Industries
Exercise physiologists can work in a variety of industries, including healthcare, fitness, sports and recreation. Salaries can vary depending on the industry.
Healthcare
Exercise physiologists who work in healthcare settings typically earn the highest salaries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for exercise physiologists working in healthcare was $50,400 in May 2019.
Fitness
Exercise physiologists who work in fitness settings typically earn slightly lower salaries than those who work in healthcare. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for exercise physiologists working in fitness was $43,650 in May 2019.
Sports and Recreation
Exercise physiologists who work in sports and recreation settings typically earn the lowest salaries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for exercise physiologists working in sports and recreation was $41,750 in May 2019.
Exploring Average Exercise Physiologist Salaries by State
Salaries for exercise physiologists can vary significantly from state to state. The following table highlights the five highest and five lowest paying states for exercise physiologists.
| Highest Paying States | Median Annual Wage (May 2019) |
|---|---|
| California | $71,900 |
| New Jersey | $63,180 |
| Massachusetts | $60,470 |
| Washington | $59,100 |
| New York | $58,290 |
| Lowest Paying States | Median Annual Wage (May 2019) |
| Mississippi | $34,410 |
| West Virginia | $36,740 |
| Arkansas | $37,520 |
| Oklahoma | $38,840 |
| Louisiana | $39,190 |
Understanding the Benefits of Being an Exercise Physiologist
In addition to competitive salaries, exercise physiologists enjoy several other benefits. These include job security, variety of settings, and the opportunity to make a difference.
Job Security
Exercise physiologists often enjoy high job security, as they are in demand in the healthcare industry. With the aging population, there is an increasing need for exercise physiologists to help people stay healthy.
Variety of Settings
Exercise physiologists can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, private clinics, fitness centers, and research facilities. This allows them to choose a setting that best suits their interests and skills.
Opportunity to Make a Difference
Exercise physiologists have the unique opportunity to help people improve their health and quality of life. Through physical activity, exercise physiologists can help people become stronger, more flexible, and better able to manage chronic conditions.
Examining the Future of Exercise Physiologist Salaries
The future of exercise physiology is bright. As the healthcare industry continues to grow, so too will the demand for exercise physiologists. Additionally, the advent of new technologies, such as telehealth, is likely to open up new job opportunities.
Industry Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of exercise physiologists will grow 18 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is due to an increased emphasis on preventive care and the growing prevalence of chronic conditions, such as diabetes and obesity.
New Technologies
Advances in technology, such as telehealth, are creating new opportunities for exercise physiologists. Telehealth enables exercise physiologists to provide remote consultations, which can increase access to care for patients in rural areas. Additionally, new technologies, such as wearable devices, can help exercise physiologists track patients’ progress and customize treatments accordingly.
What You Need to Know About Becoming an Exercise Physiologist
If you’re interested in becoming an exercise physiologist, there are several things you should know. These include the educational requirements, licensing requirements, and professional resources available.
Education Requirements
Most employers require exercise physiologists to have at least a bachelor’s degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field. Some may also require a master’s degree. Additionally, many employers prefer applicants with additional certifications, such as the ACSM CEP.
Licensing Requirements
Licensing requirements for exercise physiologists vary by state. In some states, exercise physiologists may be required to obtain a license or certification. It’s important to check with your state’s licensing board for specific requirements.
Professional Resources
There are several professional organizations that offer resources for exercise physiologists. These include the American College of Sports Medicine, the American Society of Exercise Physiologists, and the National Strength and Conditioning Association. These organizations provide information on continuing education, certification, and job opportunities.
Conclusion
Exercise physiologists play an important role in helping people reach their health goals through physical activity. On average, exercise physiologists earn a median annual salary of $49,270. Salaries can vary depending on factors such as education, experience, location, and additional certifications. Exercise physiologists can work in a variety of settings, including healthcare, fitness, and sports and recreation. Additionally, exercise physiologists may enjoy job security, variety of settings, and the opportunity to make a difference. To become an exercise physiologist, you must have a bachelor’s degree in exercise science or a related field and meet any applicable licensing requirements.
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