Proper fitness and nutrition are essential aspects in attaining optimal health. However, many people may not know how or where to begin to make the adequate changes in their lives. This is why experienced fitness and nutrition specialists are so important to a healthy society. Career opportunities in fitness and sports nutrition are abundant, and experienced specialists are highly sought after.
Job Description
Fitness workers lead, instruct and motivate individuals or groups in exercise activities, including cardiovascular exercise, strength training and stretching. A sports nutritionist works with athletes to create food plans for athletes and teams during on- and off-season training. They hold the responsibility for educating athletes about nutrition and making healthy food choices. Sports nutritionists can also work in conjunction with psychologists to help athletes who suffer with eating disorders to improve eating habits and lifestyle choices.
Wages
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, or BLS, the median annual wages for fitness workers as of 2010 is around $29,000. The lowest 10 percent earn around $16,000 and the higher 10 percent earn $61,000.
Sports nutritionists make annual wages between $31,000 and $73,400, with a median wage of $50,000. Your salary may vary according to years of experience, education and place of employment. Registered dietitians earn a median wage of $60,000 per year.
Qualifications
The qualifications of fitness jobs depend on the nature of the work. Certification may be required for class instructors or personal trainers. Accredited certifying organizations are approved by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies. Fitness workers should have a Bachelor's degree in a sports or health science field in order to advance to management positions. CPR certification is required for most fitness positions.
Sports nutrition jobs require a Bachelor's degree at minimum, but are far more likely to find good jobs with higher pay with a Master's degree. You should also know about dietitian licensing requirements of the state in which you reside, explains the BLS. Licensed Sports Nutritionists, or LPNs, also hold a Primary Sports Nutrition License from the National Association of Sports Nutrition.
Job Types
Fitness specialists and nutritionists work in health and country clubs, hospitals, universities, resorts and clients' homes as personal trainers, group exercise instructors or fitness directors. They may perform fitness assessments and organize exercise and diet plans for clients. Fitness directors oversee programs in a facility, including new-member orientation and workout incentive programs, according to the BLS. Experienced nutritionists can also work with athletes on a professional, college or high school level as a member of the athletic coaching staff and design nutrition education programs for clients. Specialists may also be required to write newsletters and article updates.
Considerations
The information provided is only a small sampling of the many job opportunities available in the field of fitness and sports nutrition. You should specific education and certification requirements for the type of job that you wish to pursue as well as any additional standards that your state may require.
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