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Applied Exercise Science Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Science in the Park Instructor

VA · On-site

$16.66 - $35.39/hr

Basic exercise science principles and theories; Recordkeeping principles; Applicable federal, state ... Communication, interpersonal skills as applied to interaction with coworkers, supervisor, the ...

Stretch Practitioner

Maryus, VA · On-site

$15.95 - $22.95/hr

Opportunity to utilize interest/education in exercise science * Direct track to Lead Stretch ... applied stretching sessions. With a balanced system the customer will reach their true maximum ...

Fitness Associate

Midlothian, VA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Opportunity to utilize interest/education in exercise science * Direct track to Lead Stretch ... applied stretching sessions. With a balanced system the customer will reach their true maximum ...

Opportunity to utilize interest/education in exercise science * Direct track to Lead Stretch ... applied stretching sessions. With a balanced system the customer will reach their true maximum ...

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Applied Exercise Science information

See Virginia salary details

$38.7K

$62K

$86.7K

How much do applied exercise science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for applied exercise science in Virginia is $62,005.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,600.00 and $71,400.00 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 Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,005 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Exercise Physiologist- Cardiac & Pulmonary Rehabilitation -WAGE

Virginia Department of Human Resource Management

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$21.95 - $34.02/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago


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Job description

Exercise Physiologist- Cardiac & Pulmonary Rehabilitation

These roles focus on helping patients recover from injuries, illnesses, or surgeries and improve their physical, emotional, and functional well-being. Involves assessing, planning, and providing therapeutic interventions to enhance patients' abilities to perform daily activities and achieve their rehabilitation goals. These roles are responsible for providing a range of rehabilitation and therapy services across multiple disciplines. Staff and leaders in these positions may deliver care in areas such as physical, occupational, respiratory, and speech therapies, addressing diverse patient needs and promoting overall recovery and well-being. Individual contributors with responsibility in a clinical discipline or specialty. Typically involves diagnosing, treating, and caring for patients, and often include face-to-face interactions with patients. May also spend some time designing and implementing clinical programs, policies, and services using specialized knowledge and skills. Specialty license or certification required which is acquired through advanced education, training and/or experience. This career stream will be most commonly applied to patient care and/or scientific/laboratory technologist jobs. Entry-level position typically requiring little to no prior knowledge or experience and require vocational or technical education. Work is routine or follows standard procedures. Work is closely supervised. Communicates information that requires little explanation or interpretation. Education: Bachelor's degree in Cardiac Rehabilitation, Exercise Science, Kinesiology or Exercise Physiology required. Master's degree preferred. Experience: No experience required. Licensure: American Heart Association (AHA) Health Care Provider BLS certification required. Advanced Cardiac Life Support Certification required within six months of hire. Physical demands include standing for prolonged periods, frequently bending/stooping, reaching (overhead, extensive, and repetitive); Repetitive motion: computer keyboard. Proficient communicative, auditory and visual skills; Attention to detail and ability to write legibly; Ability to lift/push/pull 50 - 100lbs. May be exposed to noise, radiation, radioactive materials, blood/body fluids and infectious disease. The pay range for this role is $21.95 - $34.02 hourly. Individual compensation will be determined by the selected candidate's qualifications, previous work experience, and/or education. The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.


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