Exercise science is the study of the physiology and functional adaptations of the body to movement. CollegeBoard.com indicates that the physical-culture movement of the 1800s is thought to have inspired the field of exercise science. This movement promoted dance and sports to improve the health of the working classes. Programs in exercise science can vary widely, but there are some common threads among them.
History
As far back as Hippocrates, observations regarding exercise have been made. Hippocrates noted, "The right amount of nourishment and exercise...we would have found the safest way to health." Dudley Sargent, MD, was the Director of the Gymnasium at Harvard University between 1879 and 1919. He advocated exercise testing due to the failure of World War I recruits to pass physical tests. He developed and taught a class in applied anatomy.
Interests
People who are interested in exercise science tend to like to exercise and play organized sports and are also interested in healthy lifestyles. Taking care of the body seems to be typical of those who like exercise science. It helps to like biology, chemistry and health-related topics. It is also important to like people, as this particular field focuses on the health and well-being of people, whether they are athletes, trying to lose weight or in rehabilitation.
Program
A typical college program in exercise science will involve studying the human body in a variety of ways. Classes in biology, chemistry, anatomy and physiology, biochemistry, kinesiology, fitness programming and nutrition are often required at the undergraduate level. More advanced courses focusing on research in exercise physiology and ergonomics are available at the graduate level. Additional courses might include sports nutrition, dietetics, statistics, exercise physiology and adaptive physical education.
Considerations
Some things to consider include whether you like science, like to exercise, like to work with people and like to help people. There are a number of difficult courses in exercise science, which can intimidate some people. There are required volunteer hours, in which to practice what you learn. There are also certifications and licenses to qualify for before being able to work in the field. If all these things appeal to you, exercise science could be the career for you.
Careers
A number of careers are available for someone with a degree in exercise science, including exercise instructor, athletic trainer, biomechanist, cardiopulmonary rehabilitation specialist, sports nutritionist, dietitians, exercise physiologist, medical doctor, exercise science teacher, personal trainer, occupational physiologist, physical and/or occupational therapist, employment fitness trainer, strength and conditioning coach and researcher. Career locations include fitness centers, hospitals, rehabilitation clinics and with sports teams of all levels. Salary levels generally start around $25,000 a year and go up from there.
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