Ever thought of combining your passion for fitness with a cardiac rehabilitation program? Kayte Hall has found her passion in helping people improve their health and wellness through exercise and has proven to have a big heart. – Sarah

Sarah Koszyk, MA, RD: What attracted you to the field of fitness and exercise? Katye Hall: I always loved science and specifically loved studying anatomy in school.  I was also an athlete; so, the combination of exercise and science was the perfect fit.  Once I entered the field after graduation, I realized how much of an impact I could have in people’s lives.  That feeling is irreplaceable.

Your Job Title? Exercise Physiologist, Cardiac Rehabilitation

Company you are with now? CardioKinetics, Inc

Website: www.cardiokinetics.com

A typical (or not so typical) day-in-the-work-life for you? I manage our company’s Cardiac Rehabilitation program. My typical day is spent working with cardiac patients.  I monitor their electrocardiograms during exercise and spend time educating them on their current risk factors.  My goals for my patients are to understand how healthy lifestyle habits can significantly reduce their risk of having another event and embrace aerobic exercise as part of their daily lives. 

How did you get your current job in fitness and exercise? My father is the CEO and founder of CardioKinetics. I spent my childhood growing up at CK; so, needless to say, it wasn’t my first option to work there.  When I graduated college with a degree in Sport and Exercise Science in 2005, I moved to Dallas, TX to complete an internship at the Cooper Aerobics Center.  It was there that I began to really appreciate the kind of company that CK was. I developed a sense of pride in the company that my father had built.  After completing my internship in January of 2006, I moved back home and joined CardioKinetics. What skills were you born with and what skills have you learned along the way? I’ve had to learn most of my skills! However, I would say that the only attribute that I come by naturally is the ability to communicate and relate to my patients.  I love talking with them, hearing about their lives, and connecting with them.  Most of my other skills I have learned along the way.  Ever since I began my career in cardiac rehabilitation, I seem to be learning something new everyday. 

What advice do you have for others wanting to be just as successful and fulfilled as you? I work with college interns all the time at CardioKinetics. I always give them the same advice.  Don’t expect to jump into the perfect job after college.  No career is perfect.  There’s nothing that can replace experience; so, put in the hard work necessary and you will find that plenty of opportunities will develop along the way.  I spent five years working at CK before I began in Cardiac Rehab.  I just now feel like I’ve found my niche.  Be patient, work hard, be willing to learn, and your opportunities will be endless.

If you could be paid for your job with something other than a paycheck, what would it be? Can I be paid in vacations?

Sarah Koszyk, MA, RDN, is a Registered Dietitian and Sports Nutritionist specializing in Weight Management and Sports Nutrition for youth and adults. She writes articles for multiple publications, provides customized nutrition coaching, and is a brand spokesperson. She is founder of Family. Food. Fiesta.Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, or LinkedIn.