Exercise Physiologist Internship at Shepherd Center
About the Exercise Physiologist Internship
As an Exercise Physiologist Intern for Shepherd Center's Beyond Therapy® program, you will assist in assessing the physical fitness of patients who have a spinal cord injury (SCI), acquired brain injury (ABI), and/or other acute and chronic conditions, including wellness members, to determine current strength and endurance and devise individualized exercise programs tailored to meet the needs of specific goals.
Internship responsibilities include:
- Assisting in set up and break down of equipment for patient sessions.
- Assisting in supervision and instruction of fitness and wellness programs for special populations in a healthcare setting.
Performing fitness evaluations, developing short- and long-term goals, and tracking the progression of individuals in the program. - Developing individualized and specific exercise prescriptions for persons with SCI, ABI, and other neuromuscular conditions.
- Providing submaximal exercise testing, metabolic testing, and functional strength testing.
- Administering consultations on safe and effective exercise within the guidelines established by governing bodies, such as ACSM and NSCA, for both able-bodied and special populations.
- Demonstrating and promoting healthy lifestyle choices and educating individuals on the benefits of physical activity and healthy eating.
- Promoting and maintaining a safe and clean environment and adhering to Shepherd Center’s standards of behavior.
Get to Know Shepherd Center
Shepherd Center, located in Atlanta, Georgia, is a private, not-for-profit hospital specializing in medical treatment, research, and rehabilitation for people with spinal cord injury, brain injury, stroke, multiple sclerosis, spine and chronic pain, and other neuromuscular conditions. Beyond Therapy is a rigorous, activity-based program designed to help people with a variety of neurological disorders improve lifelong health, minimize secondary complications, and maximize the benefits of any new neural links to their muscles.
Exercise Physiologist Internship Application Requirements
Prerequisites
- Proof of current CPR certification.
- Enrollment in an accredited undergraduate program in exercise science or a related field (e.g., sports medicine, kinesiology, athletic training, nursing).
- Junior or senior standing with eligibility to complete an internship for academic credit.
- Strong work ethic, responsibility, punctuality, and reliability.
Preferred Qualifications
- Nationally accredited fitness certification (ACSM, NSCA, CSCS, ACE, NASM).
- Experience working with patients with spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, strokes, concussions, or vestibular disorders.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, organizational skills, and attention to detail.
Physical Demands
- Ability to lift 30 lbs or more consistently.
- Repetitive lifting, moving, squatting, kneeling, and crawling.
Exercise Physiologist Internship Application Deadlines
Since universities have different internship duration requirements, the semester months are approximate, but the deadline dates are firm. A student contract with your school is required. After reviewing all applications, you may be invited for a formal or phone interview.
Spring Semester (January–April)
The application deadline is October 15, and confirmations will be sent out by November 1.
Summer Semester (May-August)
The application deadline is March 15, and confirmations will be sent out by April 1.
Fall Semester (September–December)
The application deadline is July 15, and confirmations will be sent out by August 1.
Exercise Physiologist Internship Application Instructions
Email your official academic transcript, cover letter, and resume to:
Eddie Granados
Lead Exercise Physiologist
Beyond Therapy
eddie.granados@shepherd.org
678-978-4762
Internship Stipend and Housing
Beyond Therapy is unable to provide housing or any form of compensation during the internship. Students who are unable to commute from their current residence will be required to secure housing before starting the internship.