A personal exercise trainer provides personal fitness instruction to individuals seeking an exercise program to meet their specific needs. The trainer assesses the physical fitness of a client and offers sessions at a fitness center or at the client's residence. He selects certain exercises and creates programs to achieve the best possible results. He keeps track of the client's progress and provides motivation, support and encouragement. Personal exercise trainers are often employed by fitness centers or are self-employed.
A fitness specialist teaches and leads exercise routines to small and large groups of participants. She also provides motivation and training advice with the intention of improving fitness levels and preventing injuries. Before the start of an exercise routine, a fitness specialist evaluates the physical condition of individuals and modifies the routine accordingly. Fitness specialists generally work for organizations including fitness centers, professional gymnasiums, universities and hospitals.
An exercise physiologist is a medical professional who monitors specific health factors of patients recovering from medical conditions. The physical factors include heart rates, blood pressure and strength to develop a customized exercise program to assist with recovery. The exercise physiologist may demonstrate the exercises and supervises the patient as he completes the program. Exercise physiologists typically work in hospitals, physical therapy facilities or fitness centers providing care to individual patients or patients in a group setting.
A sports nutritionist created dietary plans to help individuals meet their physical fitness goals. He creates plans that safely incorporate dieting and physical activity to improve fitness. He assesses how training, body composition, hydration, diet and supplements affect fitness and physical performance. Sports nutritionists commonly work in health facilities, educational athletic departments and wellness centers (See Reference 5).
A sports instructor describes the basics and rules of certain individual sports including tennis, archery and skiing to individuals and groups seeking to become proficient at the sport. She often demonstrates necessary skills and provides feedback to individuals to help improve abilities. She also provides instruction on safety precautions. Sports instructors work in various settings such as health clubs, resorts, community centers and camps.
Athletic coaches provide instruction and direction to athletes typically participating in team sports. He organizes practice sessions to help athletes improve their skills and technique and prepare for competitions. He provides individual attention and encourages teamwork and good sportsmanship. In some team sports, athletic coaches develop game strategies and specific plays. Athletic coaches typically work in academic environments such as high schools and colleges.
As of March 2011, Simply Hired states the average annual salary is $49,000 for sports science careers. Average annual salaries can differ significantly depending on employer, education, experience and location. The employment outlook for individuals with a sports science major is generally positive. As stated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment outlook for fitness workers is projeccted to increase 29 percent from 2008 to 2018. Employment of athletic coaches is also expected to increase faster than average, rising 23 percent from 2008 to 2018.