Exercise Physiologists

Exercise Physiologists typically perform the following tasks: • Develop exercise programs to improve participant strength, flexibility, endurance, or circulatory functioning, in accordance with exercise science standards, regulatory requirements, and credentialing requirements. • Provide emergency or other appropriate medical care to participants with symptoms or signs of physical distress. • Demonstrate correct use of exercise equipment or performance of exercise routines. • Recommend methods to increase lifestyle physical activity. • Interpret exercise program participant data to evaluate progress or identify needed program changes. • Prescribe individualized exercise programs, specifying equipment, such as treadmill, exercise bicycle, ergometers, or perceptual goggles. • Provide clinical oversight of exercise for participants at all risk levels. • Explain exercise program or physiological testing procedures to participants. • Interview participants to obtain medical history or assess participant goals. • Assess physical performance requirements to aid in the development of individualized recovery or rehabilitation exercise programs. • Teach behavior modification classes related to topics such as stress management or weight control. • Conduct stress tests, using electrocardiograph (EKG) machines. • Measure oxygen consumption or lung functioning, using spirometers. • Educate athletes or coaches on techniques to improve athletic performance, such as heart rate monitoring, recovery techniques, hydration strategies, or training limits. • Evaluate staff performance in leading group exercise or conducting diagnostic tests. • Teach group exercise for low-, medium-, or high-risk clients to improve participant strength, flexibility, endurance, or circulatory functioning. • Calibrate exercise or testing equipment. • Teach courses or seminars related to exercise or diet for patients, athletes, or community groups. • Mentor or train staff to lead group exercise. • Measure amount of body fat, using such equipment as hydrostatic scale, skinfold calipers, or tape measures.