Careers In Recreation & Fitness

The growing obesity epidemic and the aging baby boomer generation have triggered enormous growth in the recreation and leisure industry. The Bureau of Labor Statistics, a division of the U.S. Department of Labor, predicts faster-than-average growth as demand grows. Collegiate recreation and leisure studies programs prepare students for careers in the management of fitness programs for wellness and therapeutic recreation.

Recreational Therapists

Recreational therapists take knowledge gained in the classroom and implement therapeutic activities to improve the quality of life for people with mental, physical or cognitive impairments. The National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification reports that the recreational therapy process is intended to facilitate full participation in life and provide a sense of purpose. Activity design typically includes an achievable challenge to provide a sense of accomplishment and improve mental acuity or physical fitness. Of the 30,000 therapeutic recreation professionals in North America, 12,000 hold certified therapeutic recreation therapist credentials. The CTRS is a professional certification awarded after completing a test and proving a body of knowledge. Recreational therapists earn an average of $39,930, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The NCTRC reports that the average salary for a therapist with a CTRS is $46,500.

Wilderness Leadership

The field of wilderness leadership encompasses ecotourism, camp management and resource management. Ithaca College in upstate New York grants degrees in outdoor adventure leadership through its recreation and leisure studies program, marrying environmental conservation with adventure. A 2010 study by Xola Consultuing showed that 26 percent of travelers from Europe, North American and Latin America participated in adventure travel. These jobs range from tour guides and adventure travel planners to youth and outdoor camp managers and program development.

Recreation Management

Programs delivered to children by municipal parks and recreation departments, or public or private family centers are designed by recreation management professionals. Pool and park managers, program facilitators and park managers do not just run kickball games and teach swimming lessons. According to The College Board, park, recreation and leisure management professionals analyze trends and research to implement quality programs for communities and schools, write grants to obtain funding and improve health and wellness for those who participate.