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Applied Exercise Science Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science or related field (exercise physiology, athletic training ... POSITION EXPECTATIONS: Applied (Programming) * Competent in executing a comprehensive and ...

Post Doctoral Scholar

Columbus, OH · On-site

$47K - $64K/yr

Arts and Sciences | Psychology The Clinical Neuroscience Lab is directed by Dr. Ruchika Prakash ... Once you have applied, the most updated information on the status of your application can be found ...

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Applied Exercise Science information

See Ohio salary details

$37.1K

$59.5K

$83.2K

How much do applied exercise science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for applied exercise science in Ohio is $59,458.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,900.00 and $68,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is applied exercise science?

Applied Exercise Science is a field focused on the study of how the human body responds and adapts to physical activity, exercise, and sports. Professionals in this area use scientific principles to assess fitness, improve athletic performance, prevent injuries, and promote overall health. This discipline combines knowledge from physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, and psychology to create effective exercise programs for individuals and groups. Graduates can work in settings like sports teams, rehabilitation centers, fitness facilities, or pursue further education in allied health professions.

What does an applied exercise science professional do?

Professionals in applied exercise science often spend their days assessing clients’ fitness levels, designing personalized exercise programs, and monitoring client progress. They may also conduct fitness testing, provide instruction on proper exercise techniques, and collaborate with other health professionals such as physical therapists or nutritionists to ensure holistic care. Additionally, they often track outcomes and adjust programs based on client feedback and performance, making adaptability and communication key parts of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an applied exercise science professional?

To thrive as an Applied Exercise Science professional, you need a solid background in exercise physiology, biomechanics, and nutrition, usually supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Experience with fitness assessment tools, exercise prescription software, and certifications like ACSM or NSCA are commonly expected. Strong interpersonal skills, motivational ability, and clear communication help you effectively guide clients and collaborate with healthcare teams. These skills ensure safe, evidence-based training programs that promote optimal health outcomes and client satisfaction.

What is the difference between Applied Exercise Science vs Personal Trainer?

AspectApplied Exercise SciencePersonal Trainer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in exercise science or related field; certifications like ACSM or NSCACertification from NASM, ACE, or ISSA; often requires CPR/AED
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, healthcare settings, fitness facilitiesGyms, fitness centers, private clients, outdoor settings
Industry UsageAcademic, research, clinical, sports performancePersonal fitness training, client coaching, health improvement

Applied Exercise Science focuses on research, clinical applications, and sports performance, often requiring advanced degrees and certifications. Personal Trainers primarily work directly with clients to improve fitness and health, typically with certification programs. While both roles promote physical activity, Applied Exercise Science emphasizes scientific understanding and research, whereas Personal Trainers focus on individualized fitness coaching.

Is applied exercise science a good career?

Applied exercise science is a viable career that involves working in health, fitness, rehabilitation, and sports settings. It often requires knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and exercise programming, with opportunities for certifications such as ACSM or NSCA to enhance employability. Job prospects depend on education level, specialization, and experience, with roles including fitness trainers, clinical exercise specialists, and sports scientists.

What can I do with an applied exercise science degree?

An applied exercise science degree prepares individuals for careers in fitness training, sports coaching, rehabilitation, and health promotion. Graduates can work as personal trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, physical therapy assistants, or wellness coordinators, often requiring certifications like CPR or specialized licenses. The degree provides a foundation in anatomy, physiology, and exercise programming, suitable for roles in gyms, sports teams, clinics, and community health settings.

What jobs can you do as an applied exercise science professional?

Applied exercise science professionals can work as fitness trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, physical therapists, sports scientists, exercise physiologists, or wellness coordinators. These roles often require knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and exercise programming, and may involve working in gyms, sports teams, rehabilitation centers, or healthcare settings.
Infographic showing various Applied Exercise Science job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,458 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

$24 - $30/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Ohio State Health and Fitness Center

Aquatic Specialist

MAIN FUNCTION:

The Aquatic Specialist is a key member of the Fitness and Wellness Department Team.  Must display a concentrated knowledge of specific health and wellness related matters including, but not limited to: delivering aquatic exercise prescriptions to varying age and ability levels, conducting pre-activity evaluations, administering swim and aquatic focused programming and providing a structured system designed to support and motivate members in their wellness journey. Experienced in executing a comprehensive and individualized approach to whole-person health and the associated service offering designed to achieve an optimal state of wellbeing.  This is inclusive of delivering safe and effective aquatic exercise prescription protocols.

DEPARTMENT:            Fitness and Wellness

REPORTS TO:             Fitness and Wellness Manager

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science or related field (exercise physiology, athletic training, public health)

HIRING REQUIREMENTS:

  • NCCA Certifications such as, but not limited to:  NATA- AT; ACSM- EP/CPT, NASM- CES, BLS/AED
  • No written disciplinary action within the last 12 months
  • Pass Background Check
  • Eligible to work in the United States

PREFERRED SKILLS AND ATTRIBUTES:

  • Minimum of one year of strong, progressive experience in swim instruction/coaching and aquatic programming for healthy and special populations
  • Excellent interpersonal skills needed for exemplary customer service; outgoing, friendly, and compassionate
  • Technologically savvy with the ability to function well within business management software systems, customer portals and member apps.

POSITION EXPECTATIONS:

Applied (Programming)

  • Competent in executing a comprehensive and individualized approach to whole-person health and the associated service offering designed to achieve an optimal state of wellbeing.
  • Competent in executing a comprehensive pre-activity screening/evaluation process.
  • Demonstrates ability to create, execute, and modify an effective and appropriate aquatic exercise prescription based on the pre-activity screening/evaluation findings for general and special populations.
  • Able to effectively document client assessments, progress, and achievement and professionally communicate such to the member/client.
  • Committed to providing the best services possible by assuring self and staff maintain current certifications, attending continuing education seminars, and reviewing industry literature.

Administrative (Operations)

  • Demonstrates competency in managing and administering client scheduling, client contacts, member tracking software, and managing the My Wellness Cloud Portal (or similar).
  • Contributes to the center’s quality assurance practices for all department services to ensure program delivery, as well as the environment, is safe and effective.
  • Able to effectively document client assessments, progress, and achievement and professionally communicate such to members and clients.
  • Committed to providing a clean and sanitary facility for all guests.
  • Oversee and routinely complete the department’s daily task check sheet as assigned

Management (Customer Relations/Team Performance)

  • Contribute to achieving a consistently excellent member experience resulting in high member satisfaction ratings and low member attrition.
  • Address all member and staff concerns regarding aquatic services and provide prompt and member- friendly follow up.
  • Contribute to providing a consistent visible floor presence and continual active member engagement.
  • Provides general supervision for clients participating at the facility.  Is committed to providing a safe, clean and organized environment and delivers customer service excellence.
  • Demonstrates the ability to safely operate and oversee all equipment and services related to the Fitness and Wellness Department or other assigned tasks.
  • Proficient and compliant with all current facility policies and procedures.

General

  • Consistently meets and/or exceeds the Center/Department performance objectives and Key Performance Indicators as outlined in the Annual Strategic Plan.
  • Demonstrates the desire to continually improve areas of the business by identifying an area for improvement, devising a solution, then implementing a plan
  • Routinely achieves a high-level of organizational alignment, plays a vital role in realizing a Culture of Excellence and adheres to the IWP Code of Conduct.
  • Accepts constructive criticism/direction and effectively changes own performance.
  • Passionate about improving the health and wellbeing of others and able to lead by example by living a healthy and active lifestyle

Disclaimer:

The intent of this job description is to describe the general nature of the duties and responsibilities required of all job incumbents assigned to this title. It is not intended to be a comprehensive list of all job responsibilities. Therefore, incumbents may be asked to perform other duties within reason and as required.