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Clinical Exercise Testing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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$5

$26

$57

How much do clinical exercise testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical exercise testing 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 clinical exercise testing?

Clinical exercise testing is a medical procedure used to assess how the heart, lungs, and muscles respond to physical activity. It typically involves monitoring a patient's heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and other vital signs while they exercise on equipment like a treadmill or stationary bike. This test helps healthcare providers diagnose conditions such as heart disease, evaluate exercise tolerance, and guide treatment decisions. It is often prescribed for individuals with symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or unexplained fatigue.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Clinical Exercise Testing, and why are they important?

To thrive in Clinical Exercise Testing, you need a strong background in exercise physiology, cardiopulmonary assessment, and clinical interpretation, typically supported by a relevant degree and certifications such as ACSM-CEP or RCEP. Familiarity with cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) equipment, ECG monitoring systems, and metabolic carts is essential. Excellent communication, critical thinking, and attention to detail are important soft skills for interacting with patients and interpreting complex data. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure accurate test results, patient safety, and effective collaboration with healthcare teams.

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

AspectClinical Exercise TestingCardiac Rehabilitation Specialist
CredentialsCPET certification, exercise physiologist credentialsCPET certification, exercise physiologist credentials
Work EnvironmentMedical clinics, hospitals, diagnostic labsRehabilitation centers, hospitals, outpatient clinics
Industry UsageDiagnostic testing, health assessmentPatient recovery, secondary prevention
Primary FocusAssessing cardiovascular and respiratory function during exerciseGuiding patients through exercise programs post-cardiac event

While both roles involve exercise testing and require similar credentials, Clinical Exercise Testing focuses on diagnosing and assessing cardiovascular and respiratory health, whereas Cardiac Rehabilitation Specialists develop and supervise recovery exercise programs for cardiac patients. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or service for patient care.

What jobs can I get with acsm certification?

With ACSM certification, individuals can pursue roles such as clinical exercise physiologist, health and wellness coach, or cardiac rehabilitation specialist. These positions typically involve designing and supervising exercise programs for patients with chronic diseases or health conditions, often requiring knowledge of exercise testing, medical clearance, and patient monitoring.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Clinical Exercise Testing, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Clinical Exercise Testing often encounter challenges such as accurately monitoring patients with complex health conditions during exercise protocols and managing unexpected physiological responses. Effective communication with multidisciplinary teams, staying updated with the latest testing guidelines, and participating in ongoing professional development can help address these challenges. Additionally, cultivating strong observational skills and maintaining a patient-centered approach are crucial for ensuring safety and reliable test results.

What is the highest paying job in exercise science?

In exercise science, the highest paying roles often include clinical exercise physiologists working in specialized medical settings or sports medicine physicians with additional certifications. These positions typically require advanced education, certifications, and experience, and can offer salaries exceeding $70,000 annually depending on location and expertise.

Is it worth becoming an exercise physiologist?

Becoming an exercise physiologist can be a worthwhile career for those interested in health, fitness, and rehabilitation, as it involves assessing and improving clients' physical activity and cardiovascular health. The role typically requires certification, such as the Certified Exercise Physiologist credential, and offers opportunities in clinical, sports, and wellness settings. Job prospects are generally favorable due to increasing awareness of preventive health and chronic disease management.

How to become a clinical exercise specialist?

To become a clinical exercise specialist, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field, along with certification such as the Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-CEP) or similar credentials. Gaining experience through internships or supervised clinical practice is also important, and strong knowledge of cardiovascular and metabolic assessment tools is essential for the role.
More about Clinical Exercise Testing jobs
What cities are hiring for Clinical Exercise Testing jobs? Cities with the most Clinical Exercise Testing job openings:
What states have the most Clinical Exercise Testing jobs? States with the most job openings for Clinical Exercise Testing jobs include:
Exercise Physiologist - Cardiopulmonary Rehab at Reynolds Crossing

Exercise Physiologist - Cardiopulmonary Rehab at Reynolds Crossing

VCU Health

Richmond, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


VCU Health rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 169 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

328th of 877 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Depending on the work assignment, the Exercise Physiologist may administer physician-ordered cardiopulmonary exercise assessments including exercise and pharmacologic cardiac stress tests and/or develop and guide exercise treatment plans for patients with chronic diseases primarily including but not limited to cardiovascular, pulmonary, and metabolic disorders.
The Exercise Physiologist recognizes and responds immediately and appropriately to potential emergency situations that may arise, and makes clinical decisions about safety and contraindications of assessment/testing/training procedures.
Licensure, Certification, or Registration Requirements for Hire:
Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)*
*must successfully obtain certification within the first 6 months of employment
Licensure, Certification, or Registration Requirements for continued employment:
Current ACSM Clinical Exercise Physiologist certification
Current CPR (BLS-C)
Current Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification
Experience REQUIRED: N/A
Experience PREFERRED:
Two (2) years or more of experience in exercise testing of clinical cardiopulmonary populations (not athletes or apparently healthy populations) or cardiovascular/pulmonary rehabilitation environment
Education/training REQUIRED:
Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science, Exercise
Physiology or related allied health field
Education/training PREFERRED:
Master's Degree in Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology or related allied health field
Independent action(s) required:
Administers prescribed cardiopulmonary assessments or formulate and carry out rehabilitation prescription; exercises judgement to adjust testing/exercise parameters; and determines when to resume or terminate assessments/exercise based on clinical observations and established protocols.
Supervisory responsibilities (if applicable):
Team member is part of a self-directed team and is responsible to assist in problem solving and ensuring a safe environment for patients.
Problems which cannot be resolved will be taken to the administrative manager for assistance in their resolution.
Additional position requirements: N/A
Age Specific groups served: Pediatric, Adolescence, Geriatric, Adult
Physical Requirements (includes use of assistance devices as appropriate):
Physical - Lifting 50-100 lbs.
Activities: Frequent bending, Walking (distance), Climbing (steps, ladder, other), Reaching (overhead, extensive, repetitive), Repetitive motion Mental/Sensory: Strong recall, Reasoning, Problem solving, Hearing, Speak clearly, Write legibly, Reading, Logical thinking
Emotional: Fast pace environment, Steady pace, Able to handle multiple priorities, Frequent and intense customer interactions, Noisy environment, Able to adapt to frequent change
Days
EEO Employer/Disabled/Protected Veteran

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