When most people think about an exercise science degree, they picture careers in gyms—personal training, fitness coaching, or maybe working with athletes. But according to Dr. Nick Barringer, Chief Academic Officer at Lionel University, that’s only a small piece of the bigger picture.
In reality, the field of exercise science is rapidly expanding into new and exciting areas—many of which students don’t even realize exist.
One of the fastest-growing areas in exercise science is what Dr. Barringer calls the “tactical and operational space.” This includes careers that support individuals in physically demanding professions such as:
These professionals are often referred to as tactical athletes—individuals whose performance can directly impact safety, mission success, and even survival.
As Dr. Barringer explains, the U.S. Army alone is now one of the largest employers of strength and conditioning professionals, highlighting just how significant this shift has become.
Unlike traditional gym-based roles, careers in the tactical space operate on a much larger scale.
For example, a strength and conditioning coach in the military may be responsible for:
These roles require not just technical knowledge, but also leadership, communication, and strategic thinking.
A strong educational foundation is key to entering these fields. At Lionel University, students build core knowledge in:
You can explore all available programs on the Programs Overview page.
Lionel offers multiple pathways depending on your goals:
For those looking to specialize or gain certifications:
But technical knowledge alone isn’t enough.
Dr. Barringer emphasizes the importance of professional skills, including:
These skills are critical when transitioning from the classroom to real-world opportunities.
One of the most valuable insights from the interview is that many opportunities in this field aren’t always easy to find.
Here are some of the best ways to break into the industry:
Many faculty members at Lionel University have real-world experience in tactical environments, including military service. Learn more on the About Lionel University page.
Dr. Barringer highlights a powerful strategy: simply reaching out.
When students contact professionals and express genuine interest, the response rate is surprisingly high.
These conversations can lead to:
The biggest takeaway from this conversation is simple:
Exercise science is no longer limited to the gym.
From helping soldiers perform at their peak, to supporting first responders, to preparing astronauts for the physical demands of space—this field is evolving in ways that are both impactful and inspiring.
For students, this means one thing:
Your career possibilities are far broader than you think.
If you're ready to explore your future in exercise science, Lionel University provides flexible pathways, expert faculty, and real-world preparation.