How to Get into Military Exercise Physiologist Jobs?

I'm curious about how someone could become an exercise physiologist in the military. What kind of education and background would you need? Is it similar to civilian exercise science roles? Any insights or personal experiences would be great!

To become an exercise physiologist in the military, you would generally need the same education and qualifications as you would for a civilian role. Here are the steps you might follow:

Education: The first step would be to obtain a bachelor's degree in Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology, or a related field. This program would give you a solid foundation of knowledge on human physiology, biomechanics, and the science behind exercise. For a more specialized understanding, you might go on to earn a Master's in Exercise Physiology or a similar discipline. In these programs, you would gain in-depth knowledge and engage in applicable research in your relevant field.

Certification: After earning your degree, you may want to consider obtaining a certification from a recognized body like the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). These certifications often require you to pass an examination, and can help set you apart in your field.

Military Service: Following your education, you would typically enlist in the military. Each branch of the military has its own requirements and procedures for enlistment. Some military branches may also offer tuition assistance or scholarship programs in exchange for a certain number of years of service.

Specific Military Requirements: Once you've enlisted, you can express interest in available exercise physiologist positions. Do note that requirements for these roles can vary across different military branches and job specifications. For example, the Navy's Aerospace Experimental Psychology program seeks trained exercise physiologists to work with aviators and astronauts.

Gaining Experience: Lastly and importantly, developing your skills and gaining experience is key to success in any role, including an exercise physiologist in the military. Beyond formal qualifications, strengthen your hands-on skills with internships, research or training positions where you can apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios.

You asked about similarities with civilian roles, and in general, military exercise physiologists do similar work to their civilian counterparts, such as designing fitness programs, conducting fitness assessments, and educating individuals about fitness and health. However, a unique aspect might be working under extreme conditions and focusing on tasks specific to the military service, like ensuring optimal physical performance during combat or long deployments.

This is just a basic outline and the exact process can vary. Be sure to research specific programs and opportunities offered by the various military branches to figure out the path that's right for you.