Does the thought of working at a desk job give you the chills? You are not alone. Many individuals find they aren’t cut out for the typical 9-to-5 office job. These folks are better off finding jobs where they can exercise their physical prowess along with their brain cells.
Occupational Therapist
The lowest level of training necessary to become an occupational therapist is an associate degree. This is a two year program usually offered at community or junior colleges. This training will allow you to enter the rehabilitation field in an entry level position. Sometimes it is cost-efficient to obtain an associate degree, get a job, and pursue an advanced degree in the evening or on weekends.
A master’s degree is required in order to practice as a certified occupational therapist. There are distance learning programs available that prepare a graduate to become a Doctor of Occupational Therapy. Graduates of these programs can assume leadership positions at hospitals, rehab centers and private practices.
Occupational Therapists can specialize in Neonatology, Geriatrics, Mental Health or Physical Rehabilitation. The American Occupational Therapy Association offers board certifications in these areas.
Fitness Careers
A wide variety of jobs exist in the fitness industry. Those with an entrepreneurial spirit often study physiology and business and then open their own fitness centers. Franchise opportunities are available for those who want the backing of a corporate home office.
Certification as a fitness instructor is also available. There are several different accredited organizations that offer fitness certifications, including the American College of Sports Medicine, the International Fitness Professionals Association and the National Federation of Professional Trainers.
Folks with fitness certifications have various employment options available to them including:Cruise ships, hotels, spas, resorts, corporate fitness trainers, and small business opportunities.
Adventure Guide
Adventure travel guides usually work for tour companies, campgrounds, resorts or parks. Many of them specialize and have training or certification in activities such as whitewater rafting, horseback riding, mountain climbing or fishing and hunting.
These jobs are often seasonal. However, people who fall in love with this type of work can find year-round employment in different places such as Hawaii, California and even overseas. Being ceritified in basic first aid and CPR increases employment opportunities.
Travel guides usually greet new groups, teach basic survival skills and set up and breakdown campsites. People skills are important in this type of work, as are leadership and organizational skills.
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