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Clinical Exercise Physiologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

As a Clinical Exercise Physiologist, your day centers on assessing patients' fitness levels, developing tailored exercise prescriptions, and monitoring their responses during supervised sessions. You ...

You are a talented Clinical Exercise Physiologist who will deliver care and support to our patients throughout our flagship virtual cardiac rehab program. You, like us, believe in the power of ...

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Clinical Exercise Physiologist information

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How much do clinical exercise physiologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical exercise physiologist 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 jobs can you do with exercise physiology?

A clinical exercise physiologist can work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, fitness facilities, and outpatient clinics, designing and supervising exercise programs for patients with chronic diseases, heart conditions, or recovering from injury. They often collaborate with healthcare professionals, utilize diagnostic tools like stress tests, and may pursue certifications such as ACSM or NSCA to expand their career options in health promotion, cardiac rehabilitation, or sports performance. These roles typically require strong knowledge of human physiology, exercise science, and patient care.

What is a Clinical Exercise Physiologist?

A Clinical Exercise Physiologist is a healthcare professional who specializes in using exercise to help prevent and manage chronic diseases and medical conditions. They assess patients' physical abilities, design safe and effective exercise programs, and monitor progress, often working with individuals who have cardiovascular, pulmonary, metabolic, or musculoskeletal issues. Clinical Exercise Physiologists often collaborate with doctors and other healthcare providers to improve patients' health outcomes through physical activity. Their work is essential in cardiac rehabilitation, pulmonary rehabilitation, and chronic disease management. They also educate patients about lifestyle modifications to promote long-term health.

What is the difference between Clinical Exercise Physiologist vs Cardiac Rehabilitation Specialist?

AspectClinical Exercise PhysiologistCardiac Rehabilitation Specialist
CredentialsCertified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-CEP), CPR certificationCertified Cardiac Rehabilitation Professional (CCRP), CPR certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, rehab centers, fitness facilitiesHospitals, outpatient cardiac rehab programs, clinics
Employer & IndustryHealthcare, sports medicine, rehab centersCardiology clinics, hospitals, rehab centers
Primary FocusDesigning exercise programs for patients with chronic diseasesManaging and guiding patients through cardiac rehab programs

The main difference between a Clinical Exercise Physiologist and a Cardiac Rehabilitation Specialist lies in their focus and certification. Clinical Exercise Physiologists develop exercise plans for various chronic conditions, while Cardiac Rehabilitation Specialists specifically focus on recovery for cardiac patients. Both roles work in healthcare settings and require similar certifications, but their primary patient populations and program goals differ.

What is the highest paying job in exercise science?

In exercise science, the highest paying roles are often in clinical exercise physiology, sports medicine, or research positions that require advanced degrees and certifications. These roles typically involve working in healthcare settings, with salaries increasing with experience, specialization, and additional credentials such as ACSM certifications or advanced degrees like a master's or doctorate.

What Does a Clinical Exercise Physiologist Do?

A clinical exercise physiologist works with a variety of patients to maintain or improve their health through physical activity. In this career, your duties may involve working with people with chronic medical conditions such as heart or lung disease, asthma, or diabetes. Your responsibilities may include assessing their needs, monitoring their exercise, and ensuring that they are following safe exercise practices. A certified exercise physiologist, also known as a CEP, may also work with patients who are recovering from a medical emergency or need to regain physical strength following surgery.

What is the role of a clinical exercise physiologist?

A clinical exercise physiologist designs and implements exercise programs to help patients recover from or manage chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. They assess patients' physical fitness, monitor progress, and often work in healthcare settings, requiring certification and knowledge of exercise testing and prescription.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Clinical Exercise Physiologist, and why are they important?

To excel as a Clinical Exercise Physiologist, you need a solid background in exercise science, human physiology, and clinical assessment, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree and professional certification (such as ACSM-CEP). Familiarity with cardiopulmonary exercise testing equipment, ECG interpretation, and health management software is commonly required. Excellent interpersonal skills, motivational ability, and clear communication help build trust and foster adherence among diverse patient populations. These competencies are crucial for delivering safe, effective exercise interventions and promoting long-term health outcomes in clinical settings.

What can you do with a clinical exercise physiology degree?

A clinical exercise physiologist can work in hospitals, clinics, or rehabilitation centers to develop and supervise exercise programs for patients with chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, or obesity. They often collaborate with healthcare teams, utilize exercise testing equipment, and may obtain certifications like ACSM or NSCA to enhance their qualifications.

What are some common challenges faced by Clinical Exercise Physiologists when implementing individualized exercise programs?

Clinical Exercise Physiologists often encounter challenges such as varying patient motivation levels, adherence to prescribed exercise regimens, and managing complex medical conditions like cardiovascular or metabolic diseases. Adapting exercise plans to accommodate individual health limitations while ensuring safety and effectiveness is crucial. Collaboration with other healthcare professionals, such as physicians and physical therapists, is essential to coordinate care and adjust programs as patients progress.
What cities are hiring for Clinical Exercise Physiologist jobs? Cities with the most Clinical Exercise Physiologist job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Clinical Exercise Physiologist jobs? The top employers for Clinical Exercise Physiologist jobs are:
What states have the most Clinical Exercise Physiologist jobs? States with the most job openings for Clinical Exercise Physiologist jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Clinical Exercise Physiologist jobs? For Clinical Exercise Physiologist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Clinical Exercise Physiologist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 8% Physical, and 92% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $54,810 per year, or $26.4 per hour.
Clinical Exercise Physiologist - RN Preferred

Clinical Exercise Physiologist - RN Preferred

MedStar Health

Clinton, MD • On-site

$22.48 - $39.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Medstar Health rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 238 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

133rd of 877 rated healthcare providers


Job description

About the Job
MedStar Health is looking for a Clinical Exercise Physiologist to join our team at MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center!
As a Clinical Exercise Physiologist, you will develop complex exercise prescriptions and assess the effectiveness and responses to interventions and documents according to established standards. The clinical exercise physiologist must quickly and effectively respond to medical emergencies in the clinical setting and assist with scheduling, clinical clerical tasks, and quality improvement activities.
Join one of the largest healthcare systems in the Baltimore-Washington metro region, also recognized as one of the "Healthiest Maryland Businesses". Apply today and learn how MedStar Health can be your next great career move!
Primary Duties:
  • Assessment of participants relevant to exercise physiology to develop a plan of care with other team members. Effectively develops and revises individual exercise prescription in accordance with AACVPR (American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation), ACSM guidelines and physician recommendations regularly.

  • Demonstrates correct body position and proper use of equipment to prevent injury and adhere to exercise prescription. Monitors participants and reports any adverse response to exercise. Demonstrate competence in tele-monitoring, EKG interpretation and blood pressure monitoring, Terminates exercise when appropriate.

  • Assists with emergency care. Documents initiation and daily assessments within established times; reviews participant's ongoing progress with other staff. Plans and educates participants regarding walking and home exercise programs and use of equipment.

  • Demonstrates knowledge of nutrition, risk factor modification and behavioral change approaches. Provider educational programs for participants in their area of expertise. Checks emergency supplies and equipment for proper function and adequate regularly.

  • Keeps current in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation through continuing education conferences and literature.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree exercise science, exercise physiology, or kinesiology or related field.

  • 1-2 years minimum of experience working in a healthcare environment.

  • ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) within 90 Days

  • ASCM, AACVPR, or CEPA certification or equivalent within 1 Year.

  • Master's degree exercise physiology preferred.

This position has a hiring range of
USD $22.48 - USD $39.75 /Hr.

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About Medstar Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

MedStar Health is dedicated to providing the highest quality care for people in Maryland and the Washington, D.C., region, while advancing the practice of medicine through education, innovation, and research. Our team of 32,000 includes physicians, nurses, residents, fellows, and many other clinical and non-clinical associates working in a variety of settings across our health system, including 10 hospitals and more than 300 community-based locations, the largest home health provider in the region, and highly respected institutes dedicated to research and innovation. As the medical education and clinical partner of Georgetown University for more than 20 years, MedStar Health is dedicated not only to teaching the next generation of doctors, but also to the continuing education, professional development, and personal fulfillment of our whole team. Together, we use the best of our minds and the best of our hearts to serve our patients, those who care for them, and our communities. It's how we treat people.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbia, MD, US

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