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.