Sports Scientist Career in South Africa
Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.
Occupation overview
Sports scientists assist sportspeople to achieve the best possible sporting performance by applying knowledge and techniques from the areas of medicine, physiology, biomechanics (the study of human movement), nutrition, psychology and physiotherapy / massage.
What does a Sports Scientist do?
Sports scientists help sportspeople improve performance by combining knowledge of human health, physiology, movement, nutrition, psychology and physical rehabilitation. They use these areas to understand an athlete’s needs, support training and performance goals, and contribute to approaches that promote effective sporting performance.
How to become a Sports Scientist in South Africa
- Develop a strong foundation in human biology, movement and physical performance.
- Build knowledge across relevant areas such as physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, psychology and physiotherapy or massage.
- Gain practical exposure to sporting environments where athlete performance can be observed and supported.
- Explore current study, provider and workplace expectations with relevant education providers, employers or professional bodies before choosing a pathway.
Edupstairs Preparation Guidance
There may not be one single universal qualification pathway for this career because it draws on several specialist disciplines. Relevant education can help build the scientific and practical knowledge needed, while the appropriate route may depend on the area of sports science pursued. Confirm current course, provider and workplace requirements before enrolling.
Useful school subjects
- Life Sciences
- Physical Sciences
- Mathematics
- Physical Education
Skills that may help
- Analysing human movement and sporting performance
- Applying scientific knowledge to practical performance goals
- Understanding the effects of physiology, nutrition and psychology on performance
- Integrating knowledge from different health and performance disciplines
- Observing performance and identifying areas for improvement