Occupations in Sport and Active Leisure

Sports Coaches

Sports coaches guide and support athletes to help them reach their full potential.
They require knowledge of their specific sport, as well as understanding of the principles of training, health and safety, and often sports psychology.
Coaches can work at various levels, from community coaching with amateurs to professional coaching with elite athletes.
Becoming a coach usually requires relevant qualifications and certifications in line with the standards of the appropriate sports governing body.

Fitness Instructors and Personal Trainers

Fitness instructors and personal trainers work in gyms, leisure centres, or private settings to help individuals improve their fitness.
They design and deliver training programmes that focus on aspects like cardiovascular fitness, strength and flexibility, based on the client’s fitness goals.
They need strong understanding of human anatomy, physiology, and nutrition, along with hold accredited qualifications.

Sports Officials

Sports officials, such as referees, umpires, and judges, ensure that sports competitions are conducted fairly and according to the rules.
They require in-depth knowledge of the rules of the sport they officiate, and often need to handle tense or confrontational situations.
Relevant training and qualifications are usually required, particularly for officiating at higher levels of competition.

Sports Development Officers

Sports development officers work to increase participation in sport, typically within a specific area or community, or for a particular sport.
They organise events, activities and initiatives to encourage people to get involved in sport and can work for sports governing bodies, local authorities or other organisations.
This role requires strong organisational and planning skills, coupled with a passion for sport.

Sports Therapists and Physiotherapists

Sports therapists and physiotherapists specialise in treating injuries incurred during sports or physical activity.
They use techniques such as massage, rehabilitative workouts, and sometimes use physiotherapy equipment to aid the recovery process.
They need a thorough understanding of the human body and must have appropriate qualifications in sports therapy or physiotherapy.

Groundsmen and Greenkeepers

Groundsmen and greenkeepers are responsible for maintaining the grounds where sports take place, such as football pitches, tennis courts, and golf courses.
They ensure playing surfaces are safe and presented to the best possible standard.
This work requires practical skills, knowledge of turf care, and potentially operating large machinery or maintaining equipment.

Roles in the Leisure Industry

The broader active leisure industry also includes roles such as leisure centre managers, dieticians, nutritionists, and sports psychologists.
These roles have varied requirements but all contribute to facilitating and promoting active, healthy lifestyles.

Work in Education

Physical education teachers and sports related roles in schools and universities are also important for introducing young people to athletics and encouraging lifelong participation in sports.

The sports and active leisure industry offers diverse opportunities for a range of skills and interests, and all roles have a part to play in promoting sport and active leisure to the wider population.