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Clinical Exercise Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MedStar Health

Clinical Exercise Physiologist

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$22.48 - $39.75/hr

As a Clinical Exercise Physiologist, you will assess patients' physical and functional capacity and implement activities. Join one of the largest healthcare systems in the Baltimore-Washington metro ...

UW Health

Clinical Exercise Physiologist

Madison, WI · On-site

We are seeking a Clinical Exercise Physiologist (CEP, Exercise Physiologist, Exercise Specialist, Cardiac Rehab Therapist) to: * Develop and coordinate individualized treatment plans that address the ...

UWHealth

Clinical Exercise Physiologist

Madison, WI · On-site

We are seeking a Clinical Exercise Physiologist (CEP, Exercise Physiologist, Exercise Specialist, Cardiac Rehab Therapist) to: * Develop and coordinate individualized treatment plans that address the ...

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Clinical Exercise information

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$5

$26

$57

How much do clinical exercise jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical exercise in the United States is $26.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $31.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a clinical exercise physiologist?

Clinical exercise physiologists are healthcare professionals who specialize in using exercise and physical activity to help patients prevent, manage, and recover from chronic diseases and conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, pulmonary disease, and obesity. They assess patients' fitness levels, develop personalized exercise programs, and monitor progress to improve overall health and quality of life. Clinical exercise physiologists often work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or private practice, collaborating closely with physicians and other healthcare providers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a clinical exercise physiologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Clinical Exercise Physiologist, you need a solid background in exercise science, physiology, and health assessment, often supported by a degree in exercise physiology or a related field. Familiarity with diagnostic tools like metabolic carts, ECG machines, and certifications such as ACSM Clinical Exercise Physiologist (CEP) are typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, motivational ability, and clear communication help build rapport with patients and healthcare teams. These competencies ensure effective patient assessment, safe exercise prescription, and improved health outcomes in clinical settings.

What are some common challenges faced by clinical exercise physiologists when working with patients in a healthcare setting?

Clinical Exercise Physiologists often encounter challenges such as motivating patients who have chronic conditions or low physical activity levels, adapting exercise programs to accommodate a wide range of medical needs, and collaborating with multidisciplinary healthcare teams to ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes. Additionally, maintaining up-to-date knowledge of clinical guidelines and documenting patient progress accurately are essential aspects of the role. Effective communication and empathy are key to overcoming these challenges and achieving positive results for patients.

What is the difference between Clinical Exercise vs Physical Therapist?

AspectClinical ExercisePhysical Therapist
CredentialsCertified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-CEP), CPR certificationDoctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), state licensure, CPR certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, outpatient clinics, rehab centers, fitness facilitiesHospitals, outpatient clinics, rehab centers, private practices
Job FocusDesigning exercise programs for chronic disease management and rehabilitationDiagnosing and treating musculoskeletal, neurological, and other physical impairments
Industry UsageHealthcare, fitness, rehabilitationHealthcare, rehabilitation, sports medicine

Both Clinical Exercise professionals and Physical Therapists work in healthcare settings and focus on patient rehabilitation. However, Clinical Exercise specialists primarily develop exercise programs for chronic disease management, while Physical Therapists diagnose and treat a broader range of physical impairments. Their credentials, work environments, and job responsibilities overlap but serve different roles within patient care.

What can I do with a clinical exercise science degree?

A clinical exercise science degree prepares individuals for roles such as exercise physiologists, cardiac rehabilitation specialists, and fitness trainers. Graduates often work in hospitals, clinics, or wellness centers, applying knowledge of human physiology, exercise testing, and rehabilitation techniques, sometimes requiring certification like ACSM or NSCA. The degree provides a foundation for careers focused on improving patient health and physical performance through exercise programs.

What do you need to be a clinical exercise physiologist?

To become a clinical exercise physiologist, you typically need a bachelor's or master's degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field, along with certification such as the Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-CEP) from the American College of Sports Medicine. Strong knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and patient care, as well as good communication skills, are essential for working with patients in clinical settings.

What does a clinical exercise specialist do?

A clinical exercise specialist designs and supervises individualized exercise programs for patients with chronic diseases or health conditions, such as cardiovascular or metabolic disorders. They assess patients' fitness levels, monitor progress, and often work in healthcare or rehabilitation settings, requiring knowledge of exercise science and certification such as ACSM or NSCA. Their goal is to improve health outcomes and functional capacity through tailored exercise interventions.
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Cities with the most Clinical Exercise job openings:

What states have the most Clinical Exercise jobs?

States with the most job openings for Clinical Exercise jobs include:

Clinical Exercise jobs near you
Infographic showing various Clinical Exercise job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,810 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Clinical Exercise Physiologist

Franciscan Alliance

Lafayette, IN • On-site

Other

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Franciscan Health rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 272 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

498th of 898 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Clinical Exercise Physiologist

The Clinical Exercise Physiologist, in collaboration with other members of the Cardiopulmonary Rehab team, is responsible for developing and implementing the physician-directed plan of care for patients referred to all phases of Cardiopulmonary Rehab. This includes creating exercise programs and educating patients on health fitness topics related to the treatment of disease process for which the patient was referred. The Exercise Physiologist evaluates and supervises patients throughout the program, and remains current in knowledge of cardiopulmonary disease, cardiac risk factor modification, health coaching, exercise prescription, and treatment of the cardiopulmonary patient.

WHO WE ARE

With 12 ministries and access points across Indiana and Illinois, Franciscan Health is one of the largest Catholic health care systems in the Midwest. Franciscan Health takes pride in hiring coworkers that provide compassionate, comprehensive care for our patients and the communities we serve.

  • Develop, implement, and adjust individualized treatment care plans for cardiac and pulmonary patients in collaboration with hospital physicians, according to standards set by American Association Cardiac Vascular Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR) and American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM).
  • Supervise assigned exercise sessions in outpatient cardiac and/or pulmonary rehabilitation, including monitoring patients for inappropriate responses to exercise, assessment of vital signs and EKG/telemetry, and instructing patients on safe exercise techniques.
  • Perform all aspects of Phase I cardiopulmonary rehab, including ambulation of referred patients, education on cardiac risk factors, and completing the department's role in discharge planning.
  • Document patient care information, and ensure timely and accurate completion of patient care records in accordance with policies and procedures.
  • Educate patients, according to policy, can include group classes or one on one instruction.
  • Ensure safe exercise facility by completing daily cleaning, inspecting equipment and reporting problems to appropriate personnel.
  • Orient and provide an initial assessment to patients referred to the program.
  • Participate in community health events as assigned.
  • Participate in Continuous Quality Improvement programs, in order to comply with HFAP, CMS, and AACVPR accreditation standards.
  • Serve as a code team member during emergency situations.
  • Communicate with appropriate personnel regarding abnormal finding and patient progress.
  • Orient new staff to the department and supervise student interns.
  • Serve as a staff resource on exercise prescription for cardiopulmonary rehab patients.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Required Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Physiology or related field
  • Required 3 months Clinical exercise physiology internship or 3 months of work experience in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Location Specific Requirement)
  • Required Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
  • Required within 180 days of hire American College of Sports Medicine - Clinical Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-CEP)- Location specific requirement.
  • Required within 180 days of hire American Association Cardiovascular Pulmonary Rehab (AACVPR)- Location specific requirement.
  • Required within 180 days of hire Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) - American Heart Association- Location specific requirement.
  • Preferred Master's Degree in Exercise Physiology or related field.

TRAVEL IS REQUIRED: Never or Rarely

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

It is the policy of Franciscan Alliance to provide equal employment to its employees and qualified applicants for employment as otherwise required by an applicable local, state or Federal law. Franciscan Alliance reserves a Right of Conscience objection in the event local, state or Federal ordinances that violate its values and the free exercise of its religious rights.

Franciscan Alliance is committed to equal employment opportunity.

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