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Adapted Physical Activity Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Adapted Physical Activity information

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How much do adapted physical activity jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for adapted physical activity in the United States is $15.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Adapted Physical Activity Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Adapted Physical Activity Specialist, you need a solid background in physical education, exercise science, or a related field, often supported by a degree and relevant certifications such as CAPE (Certified Adapted Physical Educator). Familiarity with assessment tools, adaptive equipment, and specialized instructional strategies is essential for meeting diverse participant needs. Exceptional communication, creativity, and patience are vital soft skills for building rapport and effectively motivating individuals with disabilities. These skills ensure inclusive, safe, and effective physical activity programs that enhance participants' health, confidence, and quality of life.

What are some common challenges professionals face when working in Adapted Physical Activity and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Adapted Physical Activity often encounter the challenge of designing inclusive programs that meet a wide range of physical, cognitive, and emotional needs. Adapting activities to individual abilities while maintaining engagement and motivation can be complex, especially in group settings. Collaboration with other specialists, ongoing training, and clear communication with participants and their families are essential strategies for overcoming these challenges and ensuring successful outcomes.

What is adapted physical activity?

Adapted physical activity (APA) refers to physical education, exercise, and sports programs that are specifically designed or modified to meet the unique needs of individuals with disabilities. The goal is to promote inclusion, improve physical fitness, and enhance quality of life by providing accessible and meaningful physical activities. Professionals in APA assess each person's abilities and tailor activities to ensure safety, enjoyment, and personal growth. This can include modifications to rules, equipment, or the environment to ensure everyone can participate. APA is utilized in schools, community settings, and rehabilitation programs.

What is the difference between Adapted Physical Activity vs Physical Therapist?

AspectAdapted Physical ActivityPhysical Therapist
CredentialsCertification in Adapted Physical Activity or related fieldsDoctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) license
Work EnvironmentSchools, community centers, recreational facilitiesHospitals, clinics, rehab centers
Industry UsageSpecializes in designing physical activity programs for individuals with disabilitiesFocuses on restoring movement and function after injury or illness

Adapted Physical Activity professionals develop tailored exercise programs for individuals with disabilities, often working in educational or community settings. Physical Therapists primarily treat injury or illness-related mobility issues in clinical environments. While both roles promote physical health, their focus, credentials, and work settings differ significantly.

More about Adapted Physical Activity jobs
What cities are hiring for Adapted Physical Activity jobs? Cities with the most Adapted Physical Activity job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Adapted Physical Activity jobs? The most popular types of Adapted Physical Activity jobs are:
What states have the most Adapted Physical Activity jobs? States with the most job openings for Adapted Physical Activity jobs include:
Infographic showing various Adapted Physical Activity job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% As Needed, 67% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $33,254 per year, or $16 per hour.
Open Rank Faculty in Physical Education/Health Education (PEHE)

Open Rank Faculty in Physical Education/Health Education (PEHE)

METHODIST UNIVERSITY INC

Fayetteville, NC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Position: Full Time, Tenure Track Faculty, Open Rank

Primary Responsibilities: 

  • Teach undergraduate courses in Physical Education and Health Education, including but not limited to:
  • Sports Pedagogy I and II 
  • Adapted Physical Education  
  • Adapted Physical Education Practicum 
  • Trends and Issues in Physical and Health Education 
  • Teach at least one other undergraduate course in education aligned to areas of expertise, such as the following: 
  • Introduction to Instructional Technology 
  • Methods of Instructional Technology 
  • Educational Psychology 
  • Disciplinary Literacy  
  • Establishing Respectful Learning Environments
  • Field Experiences
  • Advise undergraduate majors and supervise field experiences as needed, including conducting coaching cycles with student teachers in physical education. 
  • Contribute to curriculum development and program accreditation processes. 
  • Support departmental needs.
  • Engage in scholarly activity, service, and student mentorship consistent with tenure expectations. 

Application

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.  Completion of the search is dependent upon available funding at the time of hire. Qualified candidates should submit a letter of intent, curriculum vitae, professional references, and concise statement about your approach to teaching or other initiatives designed to foster a sense of student engagement, community, and belonging.

For inquiries, contact Dr. Courtney Samuelson at (910) 630-7057 or csamuelson@methodist.edu.

All applications should be submitted through:  http://www.methodist.edu/positions-available.

  • An earned doctorate in Physical Education, Kinesiology with a concentration in Physical Education or Pedagogy, or a related field is preferred.  A minimum of a Master’s degree in Physical Education or a related field with at least 18 graduate hours in Physical Education and/or Kinesiology is required.
  • Qualified candidates will have experience teaching Physical Education and Health Education (PEHE) in K-12 school settings.  
  • Candidates with recent professional experience in undergraduate and/or graduate PEHE teacher education is preferred.
  • Preference will also be given to candidates with expertise in other areas of teacher education outside of Physical Education and Health Education, including but not limited to instructional technology, digital learning, educational psychology, behavior management, or curriculum development.