Becoming a Cardiac Rehab Exercise Physiologist: Charlton's Story

I chose to study clinical exercise physiology because exercise is one of the very few ways to empower the human body to self-repair and self-heal without excessive exposure to side effects. I am passionate about using exercise and behaviour change strategies to inspire sustainable lifestyle modifications and long-term health improvements. 

What stood out about Salford was the practical learning experiences available, such as real-world case studies. In my undergraduate studies, learning experiences like this were saved for students studying medicine or surgery. 

The placement opportunities also really attracted me to Salford. I’ve always been a firm believer in theoretical learning being complemented by practical learning, so the opportunity to take part in placements made Salford seem like the right place for me.  

I’ve always aspired to be an RCCP/AHCS-registered clinical exercise physiologist. At the time of my application, I learned that Salford was aggressively pursuing the AHCS accreditation, which the course has since received. I wanted to be a part of a university which was accredited by this top industry body."

"The course structure and delivery at Salford gives you a sample of real-world experiences. The incorporation of the simulation suites in the course helps you put your learnings into practice in a safe and supportive environment. 

There are modules on effective communication in clinical practice and reflective learning, which have helped shape my perspective about patient interaction and best learning practices. 

The lecturers were amazing and delivered the course in ways that were easy to understand. They were very supportive if I had any problems."

"I got a placement at GMActive Prehab4Cancer. It was a great place for me to acquire hands-on skills. The job involved helping cancer patients go through rehab, post-surgery or post-radiotherapy, primarily.  

During my placement at Prehab4Cancer, I quickly learnt how collaboration and flexibility with patients helps deliver better patient-centred care. I have tried to incorporate this into my regular practice.  

I also developed an understanding of the standard operating procedures common among exercise rehab facilities. These include standard assessments, exercise class structure, coordination strategies, communication, and collaboration with patients and colleagues. These skills and knowledge made it immensely easier for me to quickly get accustomed to processes at my current job."

"Within the first few weeks after graduating, I had four job interviews, and I put this down, in part, to being a Salford alumnus. During my master’s, we looked at case studies which then came up in job interviews, and I feel this exposure gave me an edge over other candidates. 

In fewer than two and a half months after graduating, I received my first job offer and, in less than one year of graduating, my BACPR qualification. This has opened doors for me as a cardiac rehab exercise physiologist at the Wirral Community Health and Care NHS Foundation Trust. 

There is no typical day in my role as I can be doing a variety of different things. These could include initial assessments, conducting functional capacity tests, leading exercise rehab classes, or leading the electrocardiogram (ECG) clinic. 

My ultimate career ambition is to be a world-class researcher in the field of cardiac physiology. I’m particularly interested in Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiology."

"Studying at Salford was a life-changing, foundation-building experience for me. The lessons learned and skills gained will be the basis of many future career decisions.  

My advice to prospective students considering Salford is to immerse yourself in the learning experience and seize opportunities to learn wherever you can. Take up a placement opportunity and attend seminars. Interact and collaborate with coursemates and your lecturers. Most importantly, be kind and respectful."