Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, once stated, “If we could give every individual the right amount of nourishment and exercise, not too little and not too much, we would have found the safest way to health” (Buford et al 157). Hippocrates words support the importance of good health. A career in Health and Exercise Science is important in promoting optimum health in an individual or population.
“Literature supports the use of exercise as a way of achieving functional and psychological improvement” (Mobily 9). An interest in exercising and weight lifting has led to an interest in a career in health and exercise. Many students in the field of exercise science find it satisfying to build muscle and strength . It is beneficial to be able to provide instruction in exercise strategies and healthy eating habits for individuals or groups. A Fitness Trainer, Exercise Physiologist, and Nutritionist are individuals who can provide instruction in developing health benefits.
A Fitness Trainer is an individual who “leads, instructs, and motivates individuals or groups in exercise activities, including cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and stretching” (Bureau of Labor Statistics 1). They work with people of all age groups and all skill levels. A Fitness Trainer can work in, including but not limited to, a gym, recreation center, hospital, private studio, or in an individual’s home. The median annual wage for a fitness trainer in 2012 was $31,720 (Bureau of Labor Statistics 1). The education and training that are needed to be a Fitness Trainer varies with employers and by specialty. A high school diploma is needed, with associate degree or bachelor degree. A Fitness Trainer needs to work with an experienced trainer before training alone. An employer usually requires a certification as well as certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The Bureau of Labor Statistics state “the employment of Fitness Trainers is