Studies & Degrees in Health and Fitness
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A degree in Health and Fitness gives access to a career of a Personal Instructor, wellness specialist, nutritionist, and other similar positions. Most of all, you would be learning the principles of exercise science in a variety of health and wellness settings. Health and Fitness specialists are responsible for helping individuals improve and maintain their physical health and fitness levels through following a customized exercise regime and diet plan. They usually provide instruction and advice either on groups or individuals.
Health and Fitness specialists typically start by evaluating the needs and capabilities of their clients by weighing, measuring and carrying out fitness tests to check blood pressure, heart rate and lung capacity. Afterwards they design personal exercise programs, tailored to the clients’ fitness level and age. They advise them how to properly use weightlifting equipment, exercise bikes, treadmills and other training and exercise machines. Besides, Health and Fitness specialists craft diet plans, advising on how to properly prepare and plan daily meals. These professionals can also be responsible for instructing specialized classes like aerobics, spinning, yoga, etc. They can also work in collaboration with medical practitioners, physiotherapists and exercise physiologists to draw out wellness plans for individuals with special needs.
Personal Qualities
To pursue a career in Health and Fitness you need to be committed to healthy living yourself, whilst also having the patience and determination to help and motivate others. Further qualities include:
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Outgoing, enthusiastic personality
- Empathetic, tactful, and people-oriented
- Good level of physical fitness
- Background in sports and various fitness activities
Study Options
If you wish to study in the field of Health and Fitness, you have loads of opportunities to choose from – bachelor’s, associate’s, and master’s programs are available at various institutions. You can also take courses online or part-time. On the other hand, there is the option to get on-the-job training at first, and then enroll on a distance learning program if you get more serious about it. If you decide to pursue a degree at a university, though, make sure that it is an accredited one and that your diploma will be allowing you to practice in the region of the world you wish to live in. The possibilities that the course provides for hands-on experience are of the highest importance, too. You need to learn how to motivate people and keep them interested in the exercise program, which can only be learned by working with real individuals, rather than only reading theory. Finally, it would be useful if the course you choose would be giving you the opportunity to specialize in an area of your choice.
Career Options
Health and Fitness specialists usually work in health and fitness clubs, gymnasiums, sports centers and community recreation organizations. They can also pursue careers as personal trainers and visit their clients at their homes or personal gyms. Career prospects for such specialists are very good, considering that a greater part of the world population has become more health conscious and fitness-oriented. Keeping this in mind, if you wish to become such a Health and Fitness professional, you can have your own business, providing health and fitness support and information either online, or by opening your own health and fitness center or practice. Finally, an opportunity is to specialize in disciplines like aerobics, aqua-fitness, or exercise for people with special needs.