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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.
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