Exercise Physiologist

Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland.





Work Shift:

8 Hours - Day Shifts (United States of America)



Scheduled Weekly Hours:

40



Compensation:

Salary Range: $19.00 - $30.50





Union Position:

No



Department Details

Monday-Friday 8 to 1630 no weekends, no call.

Summary

Utilizes scientific rationale to design, implement and supervise exercise programming for those with chronic diseases, conditions or physical limitations. Provides physical conditioning, reconditioning, risk factor reduction, and education by prescribing, conducting, and evaluating cardiovascular and metabolic exercise programs and physical exercise under the supervision of a physician.

Job Description

Researches acute and chronic physiological adaptations to physical activity, gaining a full understanding of how a chronic disease affects an individual prior to recommending exercise. Analyzes a patient's medical history to assess their risk during exercise and to determine the best possible exercise and fitness regimen for the patient.

Performs fitness and stress tests with medical equipment and analyzes the resulting patient data. Measures blood pressure, oxygen usage, heart rhythm and other key patient health indicators. Develops exercise programs to improve patient's health. Conducts controlled investigations of responses and adaptations to muscular activity. Performs dietary intake assessments and counsels on modifications needed, referring to dietitian as necessary in order to achieve goals. Depending on location, may perform 12 lead EKGs/monitors.

Conducts weight management assessments and calculates body mass index (BMI) to determine proper category; develops goals for weight loss. Interprets values of lipid tests such as low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), total cholesterol, and triglycerides. Assists with diabetes management and tobacco cessation programs. Develops risk reduction and behavior modification plans to minimize future risk of chronic diseases and illness.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in exercise science, kinesiology, human performance and fitness human biology or a related field. Master’s degree preferred.

Experience in exercise program planning and working with chronic diseases and illness preferred. Possesses a thorough understanding of the physiological basis of activity and the ability to prescribe and instruct exercise according to American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) guidelines.