2

Entry Level Exercise Physiology Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Entry Level Exercise Physiology information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$12

$27

$46

How much do entry level exercise physiology jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level exercise physiology in Raleigh, NC is $27.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.10 and $32.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Exercise Physiologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Exercise Physiologist, you need a bachelor's degree in exercise physiology or a related field, along with a strong understanding of human anatomy, physiology, and exercise prescription. Familiarity with fitness assessment tools, metabolic carts, and potentially certifications like ACSM Certified Exercise Physiologist are typically required. Excellent interpersonal skills, motivation, and clear communication help you connect with clients and support their fitness or rehabilitation goals. These skills and qualities are crucial for designing safe, effective exercise programs and fostering positive client outcomes.

What is the difference between Entry Level Exercise Physiology vs Entry Level Personal Trainer?

AspectEntry Level Exercise PhysiologyEntry Level Personal Trainer
CredentialsCertification from accredited organizations (e.g., ACSM, NSCA)Certification from organizations like NASM, ACE
Work EnvironmentClinics, hospitals, rehab centers, sports teamsGyms, fitness centers, private training studios
Employer & IndustryHealthcare, rehabilitation, sports medicineFitness, wellness, personal training
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Both roles require certification and involve working with clients to improve physical health. Entry Level Exercise Physiology typically focuses on rehabilitation and clinical settings, while Entry Level Personal Trainers work mainly in fitness centers to help clients achieve fitness goals. The key differences lie in work environment and scope of practice, but both serve as foundational roles in health and fitness industries.

What are entry level exercise physiologists?

Entry level exercise physiologists are professionals who have recently started their careers in the field of exercise science. They assess, plan, and implement exercise programs to help individuals improve their health, fitness, and performance, often working with people recovering from injury or managing chronic diseases. Entry level roles typically require a bachelor's degree in exercise physiology or a related field, and may involve working in hospitals, fitness centers, or rehabilitation clinics under the supervision of more experienced practitioners.

How to get into exercise physiology?

To become an exercise physiologist, typically a bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field is required. Gaining certification, such as the Certified Exercise Physiologist credential from the American College of Sports Medicine, can improve job prospects. Practical experience through internships or clinical settings is also valuable.

What jobs can I get with a degree in exercise physiology?

With a degree in exercise physiology, you can pursue roles such as exercise physiologist, fitness trainer, rehabilitation specialist, or health and wellness coach. These positions often involve working in clinical, sports, or fitness settings and may require certifications like ACSM or NSCA. Job responsibilities include developing exercise programs, assessing physical fitness, and promoting health and recovery.

What is the starting salary for an exercise physiologist?

The starting salary for an entry-level exercise physiologist typically ranges from $40,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on location, employer, and certifications. Salaries can increase with experience, advanced certifications, and specialized skills in rehabilitation or clinical settings.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level exercise physiologists when working with diverse client populations?

Entry-level exercise physiologists often encounter the challenge of adapting exercise plans to accommodate clients with varying fitness levels, medical histories, and motivational factors. Balancing the needs of clients with chronic conditions or injuries while ensuring safety and effectiveness can be demanding. Additionally, new professionals may need to develop strong communication skills to educate clients and collaborate with other healthcare providers. Ongoing learning and seeking mentorship can help address these challenges and support professional growth.

Can I be an exercise physiologist without a degree?

Becoming an exercise physiologist typically requires at least a bachelor's degree in exercise science, physiology, or a related field. Certification from organizations like the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) often requires a degree and practical experience, making it difficult to enter the profession without formal education. Some related roles in fitness or health may be available without a degree, but for exercise physiology positions, a degree is generally essential.
What are the most commonly searched types of Exercise Physiology jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Exercise Physiology jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Exercise Physiology jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Entry Level Exercise Physiology jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Exercise Physiology jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Exercise Physiology jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Entry Level Exercise Physiology jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Entry Level Exercise Physiology job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Exercise Physiology job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,328 per year, or $27.6 per hour.
Exercise Specialist - Duke Fitness Center - part time

Exercise Specialist - Duke Fitness Center - part time

Duke Health

Durham, NC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Duke Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 250 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

304th of 890 rated healthcare providers


Job description


General Description of the Job Class

The Duke Health and Fitness Center is seeking a highly qualified exercise specialist to join our team. Responsibilities include to provide safety for clinical members during exercise sessions and to triage symptoms and vitals for members pre/during/post exercise sessions and providing personal training sessions to a diverse member population. Supporting group fitness classes on land and in pool is an added support.

Work Performed

Level I - Participate in screening individuals' medical histories and current Health status to identify major health risk factors; administer fitness testing procedures and counsel individuals regarding test results and us of exercise equipment, assist with fitness-related educational programs. - Population usually low risk, even though risk factors exist. Entry level work with medical programs, scripts must be co-signed by level 3 Exercise Specialist, Exercise Physiologist or supervisor. Level II - Plan, coordinate and implement the development of exercise and related programs for a variety of special populations and clinical programs. - Perform a wide variety of fitness assessments and/or non-invasive cardiopulmonary tests according to work site. - Responsible for developing safe exercise prescriptions, goal setting and exercise progression for low, medium and high-risk patients. - Able to teach variety of land and water based group exercise for low, medium and high risk clients as required by work site. - Requires co-sign / oversight by Level 3 Exercise Specialist, Exercise Physiologist or supervisor. Level III - Responsible for all exercise requirements indicated in cardiac rehab state license, AACVPR national and ACSM guidelines as applicable to work site. - Able to teach most/all offered land and water based group exercise for low, medium and high risk clients as required by work site. - Recognizes symptom changes & signs of problems. - Knows appropriate medical response / processes. - Initiates first responder care. - Active in program certification process and regulatory agency review as applicable to work site. - Understands care management and interacts as patient advocate for appropriate referrals (non-physician) to other professionals or community services as indicated. - Function as a Team Leader and performs charge responsibilities

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

N/A

Level Characteristics

Level I: All exercise scripts have to be co-signed by higher-level ES Lower risk responsibilities. Significant on the job training takes place at this level. Level II: Higher level of function and autonomy, but still needs oversight. May have some "charge duty" responsibilities, but not full supervisory responsibility. Level III: Functions independently in all diagnostic / clinical tasks. Higher-level function regarding program oversight. No co-signatures required (unless future national policy requires EP signature.) Maximum level attained without master's degree or RCEP credential.

Minimum QualificationsEducation

Bachelor's degree in exercise science or related field required.

Experience

Level I: No previous experience required.Level II: Minimum 1-year applicable experience. Equivalent combination of education and experience may be accepted. Level III: Minimum 2 yrs. applicable experience. Equivalent combination of education and experience may be accepted.

Degrees, Licensures, Certifications

Level I: BLS certification Level II: BLS; ACSM certification (must attain certification within 1 year of hire) Level III: BLS (ACLS preferred), ACSM Clinical Certification as Exercise Specialist required


Duke is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions), sexual orientation or military status.


Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas-an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.


Essential Physical Job Functions:

Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essential job functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.


Employment Type: FULL_TIME

What Duke Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom