Are you interested in helping people to stay fit and lead a healthy lifestyle? Maybe your dream is to take part in sport at a professional level or coach and advise those who do. If this sounds like you, this career area may be just what you’re looking for.

Those who aspire to become sports professionals, whether that be an athlete, golfer or football player, amongst others, must be dedicated and show commitment by putting in a lot of hard work! Even those who do not work in sports performance itself have a real passion for sport, fitness or a healthy lifestyle.

To see the routes to getting into each of these sectors, take a look at our Career Areas.

What areas can I work in?

There are many different types of work in sports, including coaching and instructing, sports development, leisure centre operations and management, sports science and therapy and, of course, professional sports performance.

There are also sport-related jobs in other career areas, for example, sports journalism, retailing (clothing, footwear and equipment), administration, facilities management and event management.

What kind of companies can I work for?

Possible employers include:

• local authorities – community sports, schools and leisure centres
• private gyms and health clubs
• large sports clubs – such as football clubs and golf clubs
• sports councils and governing bodies.