Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
carnegieXchange: School of Sport
From the Carnegie School of Sport to becoming a Cardiac Coach
Chloe Waugh, recipient of the Dean's Prize for Outstanding Academic Achievement in the Class of 2024, discusses how studying physical activity, exercise and health helped her develop the expertise to become a cardiac coach.
Why did you choose to study at Leeds Beckett University?
I was originally working full-time before I decided to change direction and further explore my passion for health and exercise. I chose to study at Leeds Beckett University due to the Physical Activity, Exercise and Health course (now renamed BSc (Hons) Health and Exercise Science) which stood out to me against other universities due to the emphasis on the course being health-related as opposed to being sport-specific.My admissions process was slightly different, as an individual who was already in full-time work. However, this process could not have gone any smoother thanks to conversations I had with the Course Director who was happy to support me and answer any queries I had throughout.
What did you enjoy most about the course?
I particularly enjoyed the practical aspects of this course, such as testing VO2max on the Watt bikes or assessing blood lipid levels in the lab. I have always had a passion for nutrition and throughout this course I was able to develop my knowledge and skills further, even utilising my dietary analysis skills to support the completion of my final year project. Overall, I enjoyed the variety of learning on this course and the genuine skills I have taken away from it.What skills did you learn at university that you now apply in your professional life as a Cardiac Coach?
This course at Leeds Beckett was perfect for developing my knowledge of exercise and health. The practical sessions, nutrition-focused modules and exercise referral sessions, all helped me secure a role with Clinical Prevention and Rehabilitation (CP&R).What advice would you give someone who might also be interested in moving into this career?
Give your all at university and really engage with all the practical sessions and work experience opportunities. Try your best to do some work experience to give yourself some further understanding and practise in the career area you want to move into. Never be afraid to ask questions if you are unsure of something because the staff members are always there to help, and take advantage of the additional skill opportunities such as Level 3 personal training.Chloe Waugh
BSc (Hons) Physical Activity, Exercise and Health graduate.