Sport scientists use scientific principles to improve athletic performance through creating benchmarks, exercise and nutrition programs, and conducting research. Subdisciplines include anatomy, physiology, nutrition, and psychology, with specialization options and career paths in teaching, training, research, and administration. A bachelor’s degree and certification are typically required.
Sport scientists apply scientific principles to athletic activities. Tasks can range from creating performance benchmarks to creating exercise and nutrition programs that improve athletic performance. These scientists can draw on knowledge from various disciplines such as physiology, anatomy, nutrition, and psychology. Research is another primary focus of many sports scientists.
Several subdisciplines are part of sport science. Tasks related to anatomy and physiology may include comparing different body sizes and shapes or measuring various functional capacities. As for nutrition, some athletes, such as those involved in high-speed, high-energy sports, need more of certain types of nutrients, such as carbohydrates. A sports scientist would catalog these individual needs and create unique and specific diets for various athletes. On the other hand, a psychology-focused sports scientist might assess the roles the human brain and intellect play in different athletic influences such as stress management and endurance.
Exercise physiology is another important component of sport science. This discipline looks at how physical movement affects bodily processes. Factors such as muscle strength, breathing and heart rate are important. These analyzes can help create training programs for athletes, such as aerobic and muscle-building exercises.
Numerous scientific journals are devoted to exercise physiology, and sport scientists may seek publication in these or similar texts. A research-focused sports scientist may study and record primarily physiological responses. One of the most famous examples is August Krogh, who received the Nobel Prize in the early 20th century for discovering the means by which blood flows through muscles. Additionally, physician Austin Flint was a pioneer in the field, providing details on the body’s reactions to exercise.
A sport scientist may pursue specialization in one of the subdisciplines mentioned above. Some people may choose to work as exercise instructors, teachers and trainers, or in similar forms of employment that emphasize information sharing. Others, such as nutritionists, physical therapists, or professional sports consultants, choose a more drug-based discipline. Research positions are also available that require extensive laboratory and statistical work. Some sports scientists even have an administrative focus in which they manage sports teams or sports-related facilities.
Most sports scientist positions include a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in sport science or a related field. Certification is also required for many positions. Accredited organizations such as the United States Academy of Sports help meet these specific needs.
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