Recreation and Fitness Studies Teachers, Postsecondary
Recreation and fitness studies teachers work at colleges and universities, teaching courses on exercise physiology, leisure management, facilities operations, and related topics. Most hold graduate degrees and combine classroom instruction with research. They prepare students for careers in fitness, recreation administration, and wellness programming.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against recreation and fitness studies teachers, postsecondary and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week includes preparing and delivering lectures on topics like exercise science or recreation facility management, grading assignments and exams, holding office hours to advise students, and collaborating with colleagues on curriculum. Many instructors also conduct research, write grant proposals, or supervise student projects. Some spend time maintaining certifications or staying current with fitness and recreation industry standards.
Who this work suits
Holland code SIC. Social work is helping, teaching and working closely with people. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to do well in this role if you enjoy investigating how exercise and recreation affect human health and behavior, and you find satisfaction helping others learn these subjects. You're drawn to both the practical and scientific sides of fitness and wellness, and you prefer environments where teaching and discovery go hand in hand.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold doct.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $77,450 | $127,780 | $165,970 | 1,950 |
| Maryland | $78,210 | $97,640 | $123,180 | 90 |
| Massachusetts | $70,490 | $87,960 | $104,340 | 290 |
| Michigan | $63,100 | $83,690 | $123,230 | 320 |
| Wyoming | $59,340 | $83,260 | $98,480 | 30 |
| Pennsylvania | $63,820 | $83,150 | $104,420 | 640 |
| Wisconsin | $75,830 | $80,500 | $83,050 | 40 |
| Minnesota | $63,560 | $80,410 | $98,800 | 260 |
| New York | $60,700 | $80,190 | $103,040 | 670 |
| Connecticut | $62,780 | $79,200 | $102,410 | 190 |
| New Mexico | $64,870 | $79,090 | $85,440 | 40 |
| South Carolina | $61,940 | $78,800 | $99,340 | 280 |
All 41 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Personal Fitness Trainer — Aerobics and Fitness Association of America
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against recreation and fitness studies teachers, postsecondary and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 25-1193.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.