A sports performance specialist helps athletes improve performance through evidence-based training, movement analysis, and strength and conditioning strategies. In this sports science career path, you’ll use data-driven assessments, specialized athletic performance training, and biomechanical analysis to boost physical performance and minimize injuries.
If you’re interested in becoming a sports performance specialist, this guide covers key information you need to know, including job market demand, the skills required for success, and the educational pathways you need to take. Learn how you can succeed in an exercise science career with the Master of Science (MS) in Exercise Science online degree from Aurora University.
What Does a Sports Performance Specialist Do?
A sports performance specialist designs individualized training programs for athletes, including developing customized training cycles that address specific athletic demands. They conduct detailed performance assessments and use movement analysis to track progress and adjust training as needed.
One key component of this role is implementing injury-prevention strategies tailored to each athlete. As a result, sports performance specialists adjust programs as needed by monitoring the athlete’s progress. Strong communication skills are a vital component of this career, since collaborating with coaches, athletic trainers, and medical staff is essential for success.
What Education Do You Need to Become a Sports Performance Specialist?
Sports performance education requirements for this role start with earning a bachelor’s degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related area of study. Core coursework in anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics can also be beneficial for people hoping to enter this field.
A master’s degree is recommended for those seeking to advance their careers and secure a high-level position in this competitive job market. For the master’s program, advanced coursework in exercise physiology and sports nutrition is required.
Training in research methods and evidence-based practice is also a core requirement for becoming a sports performance specialist. There are also a few essential specialized certifications required for this role, which include:
- NSCA CSCS: National Strength and Conditioning Association’s Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist credential, which requires a bachelor’s degree.
- NASM PES: National Academy of Sports Medicine’s Performance Enhancement Specialization, which typically requires a prior Curricular Practical Training or related degree.
- NSCA CPSS: National Strength and Conditioning Association’s Certified Performance and Sport Scientist credential, which requires a bachelor’s degree and hands-on experience.
- ACSM-EP: American College of Sports Medicine specialized credential for a Certified Exercise Physiologist, which requires a bachelor’s degree in exercise science.
- NSPA-MSPC-CPSS: National Sports Performance Associations Master Sports Performance Coach certification, which requires a bachelor’s degree in exercise science.
What Skills Are Essential for Sports Performance Specialists?
Successful sports performance specialists possess several essential skills, including expertise in exercise technology, physiology, and biomechanics. They must have a deep understanding of human anatomy and movement to create effective training plans.
This career also requires knowledge of program design and periodization. These skills encompass structuring training sessions over weeks or months to help the athlete reach peak performance.
Soft skills are also vital in this important exercise science career, including strong communication to clearly convey complex, data-driven information to coaches and athletes. Coaching skills are vital, as sports performance specialists must act as leaders and adapt easily to clients’ needs.
Data analysis and performance tracking are fundamental skills for this role. Solid problem-solving and adaptability skills are also important for dealing with constantly changing training environments, injury setbacks, and the evolving needs of athletes. Quick decision-making in time sensitive situations using tools like video analysis, and task simplification to modify techniques is a main component of the role.
Ready to move from certification to career advancement?
Aurora University's online MS in Exercise Science gives you the evidence-based practice that top employers look for without pausing your career to get it.
Learn MoreWhat Career Settings Employ Sports Performance Specialists?
Sports performance specialists may work for several different employers and in several settings. For example, many who choose a sports performance coach career work for professional sports teams and organizations or for college and university athletic departments.
Another example is working as a performance enhancement specialist at private performance training facilities or corporate wellness and fitness centers. For those who prefer the more clinical aspect of the role, working for sports medicine clinics or rehabilitation centers is another option.
What Is the Salary and Job Outlook for Sports Performance Specialists?
Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show that related occupations such as exercise physiologists and athletic trainers earn an average annual salary of approximately $62,520. Top-paying states include Alaska, New York, and the District of Columbia.
Several factors can affect compensation for this role, including your work setting or employer, prior experience, and your geographic location. Jobs for exercise physiologists and related roles are projected to grow 13% through 2035, much faster than the average rate for all occupations nationwide.
Many career advancement opportunities exist in this field, like moving from providing individual coaching to becoming a leader in a role such as head of performance. Specialization in sports science, mental performance, and injury rehab are other options for future advancement.
How Can a Master’s in Exercise Science Advance Your Sports Performance Career?
A master’s degree in exercise science gives you the advanced knowledge in exercise physiology and assessment needed for a fruitful sports performance career. It also helps you prepare to earn industry-recognized certifications, such as the CSCS and CCPSS.
Having your master’s degree also gives you a competitive advantage when seeking roles in elite sports settings, such as major universities or professional teams. Through coursework and an internship or capstone experience, AU’s MS in Exercise Science program helps you gain the knowledge and research skills required for evidence-based practice.
Elevate Your Sports Performance Career Today
With a master’s degree and the right certifications, you can become a successful sports performance specialist. Gaining practical experience helps you specialize in speed, strength, or nutrition, enabling you to progress from assistant roles to titles such as lead strength and conditioning coach, director of sport performance, or other advanced roles.
The flexible MS in Exercise Science online program at AU prepares you for the next step in your sports science career path. If you’re ready to get started, apply online today.
