Do you ever stop to wonder how your body “moves”? What comes together for you to sit and stand, walk, run or swim and lift objects? This is the foundation of the field of kinesiology.
In short, kinesiology is an extensive study of muscle and motor response and aids in identifying imbalances and optimizing nervous system health. No matter one’s age, individuals may benefit from working with a professional possessing such expertise.
Graduates of the online Master of Science (M.S.) in Kinesiology program from Avila University have several exciting career opportunities. Here are five intriguing roles one can pursue with a kinesiology degree — complete with details about responsibilities, average salaries and job demand.
1. Clinical Exercise Physiologist (CEP)
Clinical exercise physiologists (CEPs) use their in-depth understanding of the body’s response to exercise to design personalized fitness and wellness programs. Their responsibilities include conducting fitness assessments, monitoring vital signs during physical activity and helping patients manage chronic diseases through exercise.
According to the U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median salary for exercise physiologists was $47,940 in May 2021. With a growth rate of 9% from 2021 to 2031, job opportunities in this sector should increase faster than the average for all occupations.
2. Athletic Trainer/Director
Athletic trainers are specialists in averting, identifying and addressing ailments and injuries related to muscles and bones. Their clientele spans a wide range of ages and abilities, including youths, professional athletes and armed forces members.
Per the BLS, the median yearly earnings for these trainers stood at $48,420 in May 2021. The employment opportunities for athletic trainers are projected to increase by 17% from 2021 to 2031, significantly outpacing the average growth for all job fields.
3. Strength and Conditioning Coach
Strength and conditioning coaches help athletes improve their fitness and performance. They design and implement safe and effective strength training and conditioning programs and provide guidance on nutrition.
According to ZipRecruiter, the average salary for these coaches is $46,734 per year. The demand for these professionals is expected to rise as more people become interested in improving their athletic performance.
4. Sports Coach
Sports coaches instruct and work with athletes to prepare them for competitions. They teach sport-specific skills and help athletes reach their full potential.
BLS notes the average annual salary for coaches and scouts was $38,970 in May 2021. These positions are projected to grow 20% from 2021 to 2031 due to a growing number of people participating in organized sports.
5. Corrective Exercise Specialist
Corrective exercise specialists use their knowledge of anatomy, kinesiology and biomechanics to help clients improve their movements and decrease pain. They work with individuals recovering from injuries or those with chronic conditions to enhance mobility.
Per Climb the Ladder, the median salary of a corrective exercise specialist in the U.S. is $52,500. The demand for these specialists will likely grow due to an increased focus on injury prevention and rehabilitation.
Honorable Mentions
Two additional career opportunities within the field of kinesiology include:
- Rehab specialist in a chiropractor’s office. A rehab specialist in a chiropractor’s office typically works with patients who need physical rehabilitation after an injury, surgery or due to chronic conditions. The role is a blend of healthcare and physical fitness. Some of the responsibilities and elements of this job include assessing patients, developing treatment plans, monitoring progress, educating patients and collaborating with other healthcare professionals.
- Fitness entrepreneur or CEO of a fitness company. A fitness entrepreneur or CEO of a fitness company will typically be involved in the business side of fitness and wellness. This could be anything from running a gym or fitness center, creating a fitness app or developing and selling fitness equipment or nutritional products.
Is This the Career Field for You?
A degree in kinesiology provides the foundation for many rewarding careers in the health and fitness industry. Each role offers its unique blend of challenges and rewards, making kinesiology a versatile choice for those interested in promoting health and wellness through physical activity. With the projected increase in demand for these professions, now is an exciting time to pursue a career in this field.
Individuals interested in this fast-growing field can get on their career path quickly with the online M.S. in Kinesiology program at Avila University. This program provides the knowledge and skills necessary to work in exercise science, injury prevention, health and human movement. Thanks to the accelerated pace, students can complete the program in as few as 12 months.
Learn more about Avila University’s online M.S. in Kinesiology program.
