What does this job look like at AHS?

Exercise specialists work with healthy populations as well as individuals and families who are challenged by musculoskeletal limitations and cardiovascular, pulmonary, neuromuscular and metabolic diseases. This population can range from pediatrics to seniors.

Working collaboratively within an interdisciplinary team, the exercise specialist is responsible for the evaluation, development, implementation, and maintenance of exercise programs. They educate individuals about healthy lifestyles and teach self-management skills to control health conditions and enhance quality of life. The exercise specialist will ensure that his/her practice is evidence-based, client centered and meets the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology (CSEP) and/or the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) standards of practice.

Exercise specialists may also take part in research activities by gathering data and collaborating with research institutes. They should be familiar with equipment such as metabolic carts, electrocardiographs and biofeedback machines. In addition, exercise specialists often act as mentors to kinesiology students and other health care professionals.

Exercise specialists work in a variety of locations, including hospitals and health facilities, and collaborate with community partners. They work both independently and within an interdisciplinary team. Hours of work are generally days with occasional evening and weekend work depending on the program.

Exercise specialists can spend multiple hours standing while working with individuals. Work can be physically demanding as they take part in exercises with an individual or assist individuals who cannot exercise on their own. They may be required to lift, move and transport equipment.

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