I want to be a sport and exercise psychologist: UK Career Pathways

In the UK there are two routes to becoming an applied scientist in the domain of
sport and exercise psychology. At the time of publication use of the title ‘psychologist’ is restricted to British Psychologist Society (BPS) members registered with the Health and Care Professions Council. Members of the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences are currently restricted to use of the title ‘Sport and Exercise Scientist’. We describe the lengthy training process related to each of these pathways. We examine considerations pertaining to use of the title ‘psychologist’ in the UK, and the resulting implications for those considering a career in the psychology of sport and exercise. We offer two reflective accounts that describe our own training experiences and how knowledge learned was helpful. We emphasize the notion that practitioners should engage in continuing professional development both within and beyond the area and discipline of application. We offer examples illustrating where we believe our work has been enhanced by studying information outside the standard curricula. Training pathways are subject to continual review and resulting modifications. Whilst the pathways described may not stand up to the test of time there is no doubt that an emphasis on continuing professional development and quality assurance will.