Comparing Exercise Physiologist and Physical Therapist Careers

Dec 3, 2024

Comparing Careers: Exercise Physiologist vs. Physical Therapist

Overview

  • This lecture covers the differences between an Exercise Physiologist and a Physical Therapist.
  • Five key categories compared: Job Duties, Schooling, Cost of Schooling, Work Environment, Salary and Job Outlook.

Job Duties

Exercise Physiologist

  • Specializes in physiological responses to exercise.
  • Administers activities like stress tests (e.g., biking with masks, treadmills with EKG monitors).
  • Develops exercise programs to help patients recover from chronic diseases (cardiovascular, pulmonary, etc.).
  • Focus on improving body composition, flexibility, and strength.

Physical Therapist

  • Evaluates and diagnoses patients with movement, musculoskeletal, or neurological disorders.
  • Treats with therapeutic exercises, neuromuscular re-education, manual therapy, etc.
  • Uses scientific agents like ultrasound and mechanical traction.
  • Helps patients with assistive devices (e.g., wheelchairs, crutches).
  • Does not use diagnostic tests like VO2 max or EKGs.
  • Works closely with patients daily to help them recover.

Schooling

Exercise Physiologist

  • Typically requires a Bachelor's degree (e.g., Kinesiology, Exercise Science).
  • Additional certifications may be required, though not universally regulated.
  • Certification bodies include ASEP and ACSM.
  • ACSM offers levels from EPC (Certified Exercise Physiologist) to RCEP (Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist).

Physical Therapist

  • Requires a Doctorate of Physical Therapy.
  • Total education could take 7-9 years (including bachelor’s and doctorate degrees).

Cost of Schooling

Exercise Physiologist

  • Bachelor's degree cost varies:
    • In-state public: ~$38,000
    • Out-of-state: ~$84,000
    • Private: ~$140,000
  • Additional costs for certifications.

Physical Therapist

  • Bachelor's and Doctorate degree cost:
    • Bachelor's follows the same costs as exercise physiologist.
    • Doctorate: ~$110,000

Work Environment

Exercise Physiologist

  • Works in diverse settings with healthcare professionals.
  • Common workplaces: rehabilitation facilities, hospitals, physician offices, military, government.

Physical Therapist

  • Works inpatient (hospitals, nursing homes) and outpatient (clinics).
  • Can specialize in areas like orthopedics, pediatrics, neurology.
  • Opportunities for home health, travel therapy, specialized fields like aquatics therapy.

Salary and Job Outlook

Exercise Physiologist

  • Median Salary: ~$49,000
  • Job Growth: 11% (2019-2029)

Physical Therapist

  • Median Salary: ~$89,000
  • Job Growth: 18% (2019-2029)

Conclusion

  • Both careers offer unique opportunities and challenges.
  • Personal reflection: Physical therapy was chosen due to passion for treating patients with exercise.
  • Exercise physiology offers flexibility for additional roles (e.g., personal trainer, sports coach).
  • Encouragement to evaluate personal career goals and make an informed decision.