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Clinical Exercise Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Tenet Health

Exercise Physiologist

San Ramon, CA

The Clinical Exercise Physiologist prescribes and leads individual exercise programs and progressions, monitors patient's tolerance and adaptation to exercise, and instructs patients during class and ...

Tenet Health

Exercise Physiologist

San Ramon, CA · On-site

$38.94 - $60.36/hr

The Clinical Exercise Physiologist prescribes and leads individual exercise programs and progressions, monitors patient's tolerance and adaptation to exercise, and instructs patients during class and ...

Tenet Health

Exercise Physiologist

San Ramon, CA · On-site

The Clinical Exercise Physiologist prescribes and leads individual exercise programs and progressions, monitors patient's tolerance and adaptation to exercise, and instructs patients during class and ...

Trinityhealth

$22.07 - $34.21/hr

Bachelor's Degree focusing on clinical patient care * Master's Degree for Physiologist role required * Specify Degree(s): Exercise Physiology, Exercise Science, or Kinesiology * 1-2 years of previous ...

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All JobsClinical Exercise JobsClinical Exercise Jobs in California

Clinical Exercise information

See California salary details

$5

$26

$57

How much do clinical exercise jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical exercise in California is $26.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $30.82 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.
Clinical Exercise jobs near you
Infographic showing various Clinical Exercise job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,093 per year, or $26 per hour.

Clinical Exercise Physiologist

Life Scan Wellness Centers

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Full-Time and Part-Time Positions Available!
We all want to make a difference...at Life Scan YOU can! As a nationally recognized medical practice that provides prevention-based screenings, physicals and fitness evaluations for Firefighters and Police Officers you can help save the lives of those that work tirelessly each day to protect ours
REQUIREMENTS:
• B.S. required from an accredited program of Exercise Physiology or Exercise Science
• M.S. preferred
• ACLS and BLS required
• Excellent written/verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational and leadership skills
• Strong technical skills to include MS Office, Imaging software and EMR platforms
• Professionalism and compassion a MUST!
• Have own vehicle that can hold and carry needed equipment
**THIS POSITION REQUIRES REGULAR REGIONAL TRAVEL AS WELL AS NATIONAL TRAVEL TO DESIGNATED FIRE/POLICE DEPARTMENT LOCATIONS**
RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Review patient history
• Assess body weight, BMI and BIA Body Fat %
• Properly prep and perform a 12-lead resting and exercise ECG with independent intermediate interpretation skills (ECG assessment will be given as part of pre-employment process to assess knowledge)
• Perform various muscular strength and endurance assessments
• Perform various flexibility assessments
• Create customized exercise prescriptions based on exam results
• Include dietary recommendations
• Individualized and detailed charting
• Other duties as assigned
WHY CHOOSE LIFE SCAN WELLNESS?
We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes the following:
• Generous daily travel stipend and mileage reimbursement
• Medical/Dental/Vision coverage after 90 days of employment
• PTO and Paid Sick Days
• $250 annual voucher provided for scrubs
• Company-wide vacation closures during designated weeks of 4th of July, Christmas and New Year's!
• We care about your well-being - LSWC offers free access to Guardian, a health/wellness management app and FREE company paid annual bloodwork upon request
Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Referral program
  • Vision insurance

Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday

Work Location: On the road

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