Exercise Physiologists — Tasks

Task statements

• Plan or conduct exercise physiology research projects.
• Explain exercise program or physiological testing procedures to participants.
• Order or recommend diagnostic procedures, such as stress tests, drug screenings, or urinary tests.
• Develop exercise programs to improve participant strength, flexibility, endurance, or circulatory functioning, in accordance with exercise science standards, regulatory requirements, and credentialing requirements.
• Provide clinical oversight of exercise for participants at all risk levels.
• Provide emergency or other appropriate medical care to participants with symptoms or signs of physical distress.
• Interview participants to obtain medical history or assess participant goals.
• Demonstrate correct use of exercise equipment or performance of exercise routines.
• Prescribe individualized exercise programs, specifying equipment, such as treadmill, exercise bicycle, ergometers, or perceptual goggles.
• Interpret exercise program participant data to evaluate progress or identify needed program changes.
• Conduct stress tests, using electrocardiograph (EKG) machines.
• Recommend methods to increase lifestyle physical activity.
• Assess physical performance requirements to aid in the development of individualized recovery or rehabilitation exercise programs.
• Measure oxygen consumption or lung functioning, using spirometers.
• Teach group exercise for low-, medium-, or high-risk clients to improve participant strength, flexibility, endurance, or circulatory functioning.
• Teach behavior modification classes related to topics such as stress management or weight control.
• Teach courses or seminars related to exercise or diet for patients, athletes, or community groups.
• Calibrate exercise or testing equipment.
• Supervise maintenance of exercise or exercise testing equipment.
• Perform routine laboratory tests of blood samples for cholesterol level or glucose tolerance.
• Evaluate staff performance in leading group exercise or conducting diagnostic tests.
• Mentor or train staff to lead group exercise.
• Present exercise knowledge, program information, or research study findings at professional meetings or conferences.
• Measure amount of body fat, using such equipment as hydrostatic scale, skinfold calipers, or tape measures.
• Educate athletes or coaches on techniques to improve athletic performance, such as heart rate monitoring, recovery techniques, hydration strategies, or training limits.