Introduction
Sports medicine is basically defined as the branch of medicine that deals with injuries sustained in athletic endeavors, including their prevention, diagnosis and treatment.
With an increase in the number of individuals opting for various forms of sports as a profession, the avenues for career in sports medicine have widened considerably.
Career Options
Once the desired qualifications have been attained and the eligibility criterion has been fulfilled, there are a number of options available for those willing to take up a career in sports medicine.
In this section, we have discussed all the major openings available in this field.
1) Group Exercise Instructor
A group exercise instructor is basically a professional who specializes in leading exercise sessions for a group of participants.
Common situations involving these group exercise instructors include land-or water-based general classes, dance/step aerobics, chair aerobics and cycling.
2) Athletic Trainer
Athletic trainers are primarily trained to work with team physicians, exercise physiologists, physical therapists and coaches. The chief aim is to facilitate care and prevention of sports and exercise-related injuries and illnesses.
3) Biomechanist
This field is another lucrative option for those considering a career in sports medicine. It is basically a study and explanation of the laws of physics as applied to physical activity, exercise and sport.
4) Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist
There are a vast series of professionals employed in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation programs from amongst those who have opted for a career in sports medicine. Some of these include clinical exercise physiologists, nurses, physical therapists and respiratory therapists.
The main role of these professionals is to provide exercise education in the context of disease management and lifestyle modification. These specialists also play the important role of providing psychological support to patients suffering from cardiac and pulmonary disease.
5) Sport Nutritionist
The most critical role of a sports nutritionist is the study of nutrient intake and metabolism patterns, with the key focus to improve performance and prevent disease. This particular branch is fast becoming one of the most sought-after options for those considering a career in sports medicine.
6) Exercise Physiologist
An exercise physiologist performs the important role of studying the acute and chronic physiological responses and adaptations that result from physical activity.
Individuals who opt for this branch with a view to follow a career in sports medicine generally apply this knowledge to improve or maintain health, fitness and overall performance.
7) Personal Trainer
Personal Trainers are most often employed on one-on-one basis with an individual. Those desirous to opt for a career in sports medicine in this particular field should have a strong background g anatomy and kinesiology, since a major portion of a job in this field required dealing with muscular strength and endurance training.
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