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Exercise Therapist: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path

Career Overview
Interview Questions

What is a Exercise Therapist?

As an Exercise Therapist in the UK, you'll help patients recover from injuries, diseases, and disabilities by designing and implementing tailored exercise programs to restore their bodily functions. This role involves using various techniques like massage, hydrotherapy, and electrotherapy to promote movement and encourage a healthier lifestyle for your patients.

How do I become a Exercise Therapist?

As an Exercise Therapist in the UK, you'll help patients recover from injuries, diseases, and disabilities by designing and implementing tailored exercise programs to restore their bodily functions. This role involves using various techniques like massage, hydrotherapy, and electrotherapy to promote movement and encourage a healthier lifestyle for your patients.

What would you like to know?

What does it take to become an Exercise Therapist?

Skills, education, personality, career progression

Job demand for an Exercise Therapist

Job ads, popular location, season to apply



Skills

  • Knowledge of anatomy and physiology
  • Ability to develop and implement exercise programs
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to assess and evaluate patient progress
  • Knowledge of injury prevention and rehabilitation techniques
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills
  • Ability to adapt to changing patient needs
  • Knowledge of medical terminology and documentation
  • Ability to maintain patient confidentiality and professionalism

Qualifications & Education

  • GCSEs/S grades
  • A levels/H grades
  • Up to four years training on an approved degree scheme
  • State registration as a physiotherapist
  • Eligibility for accelerated two-year pre-registration MSc degree programmes in Physiotherapy or Rehabilitation Science for some science and other graduates
  • Passing a medical examination

Career Path

Exercise Therapist
Physiotherapist
Sports Rehabilitation Specialist
Athletic Trainer
Strength and Conditioning Coach
Sports Scientist
Occupational Therapist
Ergonomist
Workplace Health Consultant
Cardiac Rehabilitation Specialist
Clinical Exercise Physiologist
Exercise Scientist
Personal Trainer
Fitness Manager
Wellness Coach

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between exercise therapist and physical therapist?

An exercise therapist focuses on creating customized physical fitness plans and goals, while a physical therapist primarily helps patients learn or recover specific mobility functions.

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