Do you want to become a sports dietitian?
I get many questions from students who want to be a dietitian. Here is a description of the career and work conditions that can be expected for a sports dietitian.
Nutritionist or Dietitian?
Firstly, I am a sports dietitian - which in Australia is a higher qualification than a nutritionist. One needs to become a dietitian first, then specialise in the sports field.
How to become a sports dietitian
To become a sports dietitian in many countries does not require any more than some qualification in basic Nutrition or Dietetics, and then an interest and some experience in the sports nutrition field.
In Australia, to become a Accredited Sports Dietitian, you must gain credit in a specific sports dietetics course or University unit. See Courses.
Even if you have the right qualifications, the good sports dietitian job can be hard to find. if you have the right contacts and a bit of luck you can get involved with a major sporting team. If that is the direction you wish to go in, it would be best to start helping out (possibly voluntarily) with a local sports team and work your way up from there.
What is the work like?
There are very few full time positions available as a sports dietitian, so to work in this field often a few part time positions need to be taken. Many sports dietitians do other non-sports related work (such as clinical or community dietetics). In a typical day I regularly perform anthropometry testing (such as skinfolds etc.) as well as practical sessions like cooking and shopping. A big part of my job is also diet planning and advice, and personal consultations. See example of sports dietitian services.
What are important competencies/qualities for a sports nutritionist to have?
A good communicator, people skills and counselling. Interest in food, diet, and health.
Other skills which are advantageous include marketing know-how, time management, business oriented, ongoing development and education to keep up with the emerging research.
Pro's & Con's of the work?
The pay for a sports dietitian can vary, and it can take time to make a name for yourself. Some sports teams may expect you to work long hours for minimal pay. As you can do many small jobs, the total hours can be as long or short as you would like - but this will effect pay obviously! I am passionate about sports nutrition, so I love my job! It is a great feeling making a positive impact on peoples' lives
What is the hardest part of being/becoming a dietitian?
Biochemistry units and labs at University. Nothing too hard about being a dietitian, except maybe breaking through to get more work opportunities when you work in private practice.
What is the best part of being a Sport Dietitian?
Working with other people, especially highly motivated athletes.
Future prospects of the job?
Prospects are certainly improving. The general public are becoming more aware and interested in the importance of sports nutrition, but more importantly, the coaches and fitness staff of sporting teams are seeing the benefits of having a specialist sports dietitian working with their athletes.