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Clinical Exercise Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Trinity Health

Exercise Specialist

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$21.79 - $32.68/hr

But when it comes to clinical capabilities and quality, we exceed those geographical limits. We ... As an Exercise Specialist at MercyOne Genesis, you will provide care by offering a variety of ...

Trinityhealth

Exercise Specialist

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$21.79 - $32.68/hr

But when it comes to clinical capabilities and quality, we exceed those geographical limits. We ... As an Exercise Specialist at MercyOne Genesis, you will provide care by offering a variety of ...

Trinity Health

Exercise Specialist

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$21.79 - $32.68/hr

But when it comes to clinical capabilities and quality, we exceed those geographical limits. We ... As an Exercise Specialist at MercyOne Genesis, you will provide care by offering a variety of ...

Trinityhealth

Exercise Specialist

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$21.79 - $32.68/hr

But when it comes to clinical capabilities and quality, we exceed those geographical limits. We ... As an Exercise Specialist at MercyOne Genesis, you will provide care by offering a variety of ...

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All JobsClinical Exercise JobsClinical Exercise Jobs in Iowa

Clinical Exercise information

See Iowa salary details

$4

$24

$54

How much do clinical exercise jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical exercise in Iowa is $24.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $29.38 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 Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,482 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

Exercise Specialist

Trinity Health

Bettendorf, IA • On-site

$21.79 - $32.68/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Trinity Health rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 354 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

574th of 896 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Employment Type:Part timeShift:Day ShiftDescription:At MercyOne, health care is more than just a doctor's visit or a place to go when you're in need of medical attention. Our Mission is based on improving the health of our communities - that means not only when you are sick but keeping you well.
MercyOne Genesis serves a 17-county bi-state region of the Quad Cities (Davenport and Bettendorf, Iowa, and Rock Island and Moline, Ill.) metropolitan area and the surrounding communities of Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois. But when it comes to clinical capabilities and quality, we exceed those geographical limits. We have earned distinction as a two-time national Top 15 Health System, and recognition for being in the top 1 percent in the nation for patient safety.

Join the MercyOne Genesis Family! We are looking to hire an Exercise Specialist!

As an Exercise Specialist at MercyOne Genesis, you will provide care by offering a variety of exercises and education to improve the patient'sfunctional capacity and psychosocial status in consistency with the Standards ofAmerican Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation.

Schedule:

  • Per Diem (PRN)

General Requirements:

  • Basic Life Support within 6 months
  • No experience required
  • Bachelor's degree in Exercise Physiology
  • ACSM Certification if not Master's prepared in Exercise Physiology

Pay scale:

  • $21.79 - $32.68
  • Actual compensation will fall within the range but may vary based on factors such as experience, qualifications, education, location, licensure, certification requirements, and comparisons to colleagues in similar roles

Colleagues of MercyOne Health System enjoy competitive compensation with a full benefits package and opportunity for growth throughout the system!

Visit MercyOne Careers to learn more about the benefits, culture, and career development opportunities available to you at MercyOne Health System circle of care.

Our Commitment

Rooted in our Mission and Core Values, we honor the dignity of every person and recognize the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents each colleague brings. By finding common ground and embracing our differences, we grow stronger together and deliver more compassionate, person-centered care. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.

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About Trinity Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Trinity Health Ann Arbor is a 537 -bed teaching hospital located on 340 acre campus. Recognized by IBM Watson as a Top 100 Hospital and #1 Teaching Hospital, Trinity Health Ann Arbor has been a leading health care provider for more than 100 years. Trinity Health has received numerous local and national awards in recognition of our leadership, quality outcomes, and clinical excellence.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Livonia, MI, US

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