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Entry Level Exercise Physiology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Fitness Educator

Roxbury, MA · On-site +1

$13K - $78K/yr

Description Greater Clarity is seeking an Entry-Level Fitness Educator to join our HR department ... Understanding of exercise physiology and nutrition * Experience with fitness coaching and support

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Entry Level Exercise Physiology information

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$28

$47

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

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level exercise physiology in the United States is $28.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $33.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level exercise physiologist?

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.

How to get into entry level exercise physiology?

To enter an entry-level exercise physiology role, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field. Gaining practical experience through internships or certifications like the Certified Exercise Physiologist (CEP) can improve job prospects; strong communication and knowledge of human anatomy and physiology are also important.

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 is an entry level exercise physiologist?

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.

Can I be an entry level exercise physiologist without a degree?

Entry level exercise physiologists typically need at least a bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field to qualify for entry-level positions. Some roles may require certification, such as the Certified Exercise Physiologist credential, which often requires completing a degree and passing an exam. Without a degree, it is generally difficult to meet the educational requirements for this profession.

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.

What careers can you do with entry level exercise physiology?

Entry level exercise physiology positions typically include roles such as fitness trainer, rehabilitation assistant, or health coach. These jobs often involve working in gyms, clinics, or sports settings, and may require knowledge of exercise testing, program design, and basic health assessments. Advancement may require additional certifications or experience in specialized areas like cardiac rehabilitation or sports performance.

Is it hard to find a job as an entry level exercise physiologist?

Entry level exercise physiologists often find job opportunities in healthcare, rehabilitation centers, and fitness facilities, with demand driven by increasing awareness of physical activity's health benefits. Having relevant certifications, such as ACSM or NSCA, and practical experience can improve job prospects, though competition may vary by location and industry growth.

What cities are hiring for Entry Level Exercise Physiology jobs?

Cities with the most Entry Level Exercise Physiology job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Exercise Physiology jobs?

The most popular types of Exercise Physiology jobs are:

What states have the most Entry Level Exercise Physiology jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry Level Exercise Physiology jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Exercise Physiology jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Exercise Physiology jobs are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Exercise Physiology job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,974 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

Exercise Specialist - Duke Fitness Center - part time

Duke University

Durham, NC • On-site

Other

Re-posted 24 days ago


Duke University rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

485th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Exercise Specialist - Duke Fitness Center - Part Time

The Duke Health and Fitness Center is seeking a highly qualified exercise specialist to join our team. Responsibilities include providing safety for clinical members during exercise sessions, triaging 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 use 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. Functions 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.)

Minimum Qualifications

Education 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.


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About Duke University

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Duke is regarded as one of America's leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate, and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools and hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Durham, NC, US