How to become a Sport & Exercise Scientist
Some people think scientists are geeks, but when it comes to working with sportspeople’s welfare and focusing on their health and improved performance it’s a pretty awesome role to be in.
What is a Sport and Exercise Scientist?
Sport and exercise scientists work with sports clubs or squads monitoring their welfare. They assess athletes who are undergoing rehabilitation after suffering with injuries, to get them back in shape and advise on injury prevention. They work as part of a group of people who look after different aspects of the team.
They may work with researchers to design sports equipment for the athletes. They test and work out a plan that the athletes can use to enhance their recovery or improve their performance. They then follow the client’s progress and update the plan as necessary.
Being a sport and exercise scientist, you would need to have a positive outlook and a strong interest in sports and physical activity. As you would be working with people from all kinds of backgrounds good interpersonal and communication skills are essential.
Hours & Conditions:
Sport and exercise scientists would most likely work for several sport organisations, sporting equipment manufacturers, medical practices or the defence forces. If working with a sports team or club, you would be required to work during the games season, otherwise you would see clients in a consultation clinic, research laboratory or sports ground. A standard 8-hour a workday is usual for a sport and exercise scientist but this may include weekends and evenings.
How to become a Sport & Exercise Scientist: Qualifications
A degree in sport and exercise science or human movement is required to become a sport and exercise scientist. You may opt to get a degree in medicine or degree in nutrition and then a postgraduate qualification in exercise science or clinical exercise physiology. Then you may become a member of the Exercise and Sport Science Australia (ESSA). www.essa.org.au
To look at courses that will help you find a role as a sport and exercise scientist check out https://www.careerhq.com.au/careers-database
The growth of different sports and sport clubs mean there’s more opportunities for sport and exercise scientists. The rise of different sporting events and competitions, as well as an increased interest in enhancing athlete performance, will open further opportunities for professionals in the field. https://careerhq.com.au/careers-database/job_details/460/sport-exercise-scientist