Health & Fitness Specialist: Duties & Job Market

by Kara Wahlgren

Duties of a health and fitness specialist
A health and fitness specialist can work in a variety of positions to promote healthy living and proper fitness. In general, health and fitness specialists develop programs that combat cardiovascular, pulmonary metabolic, and musculoskeletal problems. A number of specialized positions are also available to health and fitness specialists. Some might work as athletic trainers, helping athletes recover from injuries; others teach aerobics classes at fitness centers or help individual clients develop and adhere to new fitness programs.

Where to find health and fitness specialist jobs
Health and fitness specialists may find opportunities within any company that makes health a top priority. While fitness centers may be the most obvious option (and typically offer the vast majority of opportunities) positions are also available at hospitals, health care facilities, and senior centers. Some corporations even hire health and fitness specialists to promote healthy habits among their employees.

Health and fitness specialist programs
On-the-job training is relatively rare, and most health and fitness specialists need certification to land jobs in the field. The most well-known and widely regarded certification program for health and fitness specialists is offered through the American Council on Exercise (ACE). Health and fitness specialists may also be required to obtain CPR certifications, and a growing number of employers prefer candidates with Bachelor's degrees in exercise science or physical education.

Demand for health and fitness specialist jobs
As more and more people realize the importance of fitness, the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that job opportunities for fitness workers will increase by 27 percent between 2006 and 2016. Part-time jobs are more readily available than full-time jobs, so many health and fitness specialists supplement their incomes by offering private personal training sessions. Enthusiasm and good communication skills are key in all positions, so if you're passionate about promoting a healthy lifestyle, you'll have a greater chance for success as a health and fitness specialist.