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Adaptive Fitness Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Adaptive Personal Trainer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$22.50 - $35/hr

Whether you're a seasoned personal fitness trainer or just starting your career, we have ... Comprehensive Training From The Start - At Special Strong, we take training our instructors ...

Whether you're a seasoned personal fitness trainer or just starting your career, we have ... Comprehensive Training From The Start - At Special Strong, we take training our instructors ...

Adaptive Personal Trainer

Bixby, OK · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Whether you're a seasoned personal fitness trainer or just starting your career, we have ... Comprehensive Training From The Start - At Special Strong, we take training our instructors ...

Adaptive Personal Trainer

Dickinson, TX · On-site

$22.50 - $45/hr

Whether you're a seasoned personal fitness trainer or just starting your career, we have ... Comprehensive Training From The Start - At Special Strong, we take training our instructors ...

Whether you're a seasoned personal fitness trainer or just starting your career, we have ... Comprehensive Training From The Start - At Special Strong, we take training our instructors ...

Personal Trainer

Severna Park, MD · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

... Fitness-Instructor Training (MFT, MCMAP, PTL, CFL) or High-Level Sport-Governing Body ... life through adaptive fitness. Special Strong's Mission: * The mission is to empower 1 million ...

Showing results 21-40

Adaptive Fitness Instructor information

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$11

$24

$45

How much do adaptive fitness instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for adaptive fitness instructor in the United States is $24.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an adaptive fitness instructor?

Adaptive fitness instructors are professionals who design and lead exercise programs tailored to individuals with physical, sensory, or cognitive disabilities. Their goal is to make fitness accessible and beneficial for everyone, regardless of ability level. They use specialized knowledge and adaptive equipment to modify exercises, ensuring safety and effectiveness. These instructors often work in gyms, rehabilitation centers, or community organizations, and collaborate with healthcare providers to support their clients' overall well-being.

How does an adaptive fitness instructor tailor exercise programs to meet the unique needs of clients with varying abilities?

Adaptive Fitness Instructors regularly assess each client's physical abilities, medical history, and personal goals to design individualized exercise programs. They modify traditional fitness routines by adjusting equipment, intensity, and movement patterns to ensure accessibility and safety. Collaboration with physical therapists, occupational therapists, and healthcare providers is common, allowing instructors to create holistic, effective plans that support progress while minimizing risk. This role often involves creative problem-solving and ongoing communication to monitor and adapt to clients’ changing needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an adaptive fitness instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Adaptive Fitness Instructor, you need a solid background in exercise science, knowledge of adaptive physical activity, and relevant certifications such as ACSM/NSCA or adaptive fitness credentials. Familiarity with adaptive equipment, inclusive workout technologies, and client assessment tools is typically required. Strong empathy, creativity, and excellent communication skills help instructors tailor programs and motivate individuals with diverse abilities. These skills are crucial to ensure safe, effective, and empowering fitness experiences for all clients.

What is the difference between Adaptive Fitness Instructor vs Personal Trainer?

AspectAdaptive Fitness InstructorPersonal Trainer
CertificationsCPR/AED, specialized adaptive fitness certificationsCPR/AED, NASM, ACE, or similar certifications
Work EnvironmentSpecialized gyms, rehabilitation centers, community programsGyms, private studios, clients' homes
Employer & IndustryHealthcare, rehabilitation, adaptive fitness programsFitness industry, health clubs, private clients

Adaptive Fitness Instructors focus on designing and leading fitness programs tailored for individuals with disabilities or special needs, requiring specialized certifications. Personal Trainers work with a broad client base to improve general fitness, often in gyms or private settings. While both roles require CPR/AED certification, Adaptive Fitness Instructors need additional training in adaptive techniques. The roles overlap in promoting health and fitness but differ in target populations and work environments.

What cities are hiring for Adaptive Fitness Instructor jobs?

Cities with the most Adaptive Fitness Instructor job openings:

What states have the most Adaptive Fitness Instructor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Adaptive Fitness Instructor jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Adaptive Fitness Instructor jobs?

For Adaptive Fitness Instructor jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Adaptive Fitness Instructor job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 22% Full Time, and 78% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,693 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Adaptive Personal Trainer

Dallas, TX • On-site

$45 - $75/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Conduct private 1:1 training sessions and lead or co-lead group classes at participating on-site locations.

  • Update and review client profiles and prepare for upcoming workouts, including conducting fitness assessments and re-assessments.

  • Work within a 15-mile radius of the location, providing adaptive fitness training tailored to clients' needs and abilities.


Job description

Benefits:
  • Competitive salary
  • Flexible schedule
  • Training & development

Looking to work part-time for additional income? Want to truly set your own schedule? Looking for office support and no lead generation? 
Why Work for Special Strong:
  • Competitive Pay Above Industry Standard - At Special Strong, our personal fitness trainers enjoy competitive compensation, with pay rates 30% higher than the fitness trainer jobs standard. We believe in awarding the value of our team members' expertise and dedication.
  • Flexibility To Suit Your Life - We each live different lives, which is why our personal trainer jobs offer part-time work. We offer flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs as you go through life's chapters. Whether you're a seasoned personal fitness trainer or just starting your career, we have opportunities for personal trainer jobs at every stage.
  • Comprehensive Training From The Start - At Special Strong, we take training our instructors seriously, providing everything you need to know on how to become a personal trainer who excels in the industry. From our online accredited certification programs to hands-on workshops where we teach you the ins and outs of these personal trainer jobs, you’ll receive all the knowledge and skills to deliver an impactful service to your clients.
  • Making A Difference Every Day - With a focus on inclusivity and accessibility, our adaptive gym personal trainer team provides customized workouts tailored to each client's unique needs and abilities. Every session is an opportunity to inspire, motivate, and empower individuals to reach their full potential. Every day, you'll witness the positive impact of your work as you help individuals overcome obstacles, achieve their fitness goals, and improve their overall quality of life.
  • Opportunity For Career Growth - At Special Strong, we believe in the growth of our clients and personal trainers. That is why we provide opportunities for our staff to advance their careers and even open their own Special Strong franchise. We will work with you to align with your goals as a certified personal trainer, providing comprehensive resources and support to help you achieve them.
  • Client Retention For A Secure Career - Given our personalized training and community approach to fitness, our clients stay with us four times longer than standard fitness jobs. We provide our clients with a supportive and inclusive environment, which significantly contributes to building long-lasting client relationships.
Available Shifts 
Choose your own shifts! (Evenings and Saturdays are the greatest need)
  • Monday through Friday 
  • Saturday
Responsibilities 
  • Available to work at participating on-site location
  • Within a 15-mile radius of on-site location
  • Private 1:1 training sessions
  • Lead/Co-Lead group classes
  • Update and review client profiles; prepare for upcoming workouts
  • Conduct fitness assessments and re-assessments regularly
Qualifications
  • Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) certification
  • Approved Personal Training Certification (NCCA preferred)
  • Available to travel within a 15-mile radius of the job posting location
  • Comfortable with smartphones and basic computer operation
  • Prior Personal Trainer experience is preferred, but not required
  • Any experience (volunteer or professional) with special needs will result in high-priority
Special Strong’s Vision:
  • To give every individual in the world impacted by mental, physical, or cognitive challenges the opportunity to live an abundant life through adaptive fitness. 
Special Strong’s Mission: 
  • The mission is to empower 1 million athletes and 100,000 coaches to live an abundant life through Adaptive Fitness. 
Special Strong’s Founding Verse
  • "I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly." John 10:10
What is it like working for Special Strong?
"I've been a personal trainer for over 20 years. When I started with Special Strong, I knew I found my calling working with special needs. It's the most rewarding work I've ever done in my career!” - Lee S, Special Strong Trainer
Special Strong’s Core Values: 
  • Stewardship: We are Faithful Stewards of what God has Given Us
    "Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much." Luke 16:10
  • Transparency: We are Real People who are Real with People.
    "And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." John 8:32
  • Relationship Focused: We are Relationship Focused First and Profit Second.
    "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." Matthew 6:33
  • Ownership: We Own Our Unique Roles and Take 100% Responsibility
    "You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things." Matthew 25:23
  • No Judgement: We Seek to Relate and Understand Another Person's Walk of Life.
    "Do for others what you would like them to do for you. This is a summary of all that is taught in the law and the prophets." Matthew 7:12
  • Generosity: We are blessed to be a Blessing to Others
    "Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully." 2 Corinthians 9:6