1

Exercise Assistant Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

The Exercise Physiologist provides exercise/fitness assessment and education to patients and ... Our aim is to assist patients and families in achieving meaningful goals and functional outcomes ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Exercise Assistant information

See Alabama salary details

$8

$16

$26

How much do exercise assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise assistant in Alabama is $16.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.01 and $17.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I work in a gym with no experience?

Exercise assistants in gyms often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training is common. However, basic knowledge of fitness principles and good communication skills are helpful, and some positions may prefer or require certifications such as CPR or a fitness-related credential.

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

To thrive as an Exercise Assistant, you need a basic understanding of exercise science, human anatomy, and fitness instruction, usually supported by a relevant certification such as CPR/AED and sometimes a fitness-related qualification. Familiarity with gym equipment, fitness assessment tools, and client management software is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, motivation, and the ability to communicate clearly help create a positive environment and encourage client participation. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring client safety, promoting effective workouts, and supporting overall wellness goals.

What are Exercise Assistants?

Exercise Assistants are professionals who support fitness instructors, physical therapists, or exercise programs by helping clients perform exercises safely and effectively. Their responsibilities often include setting up equipment, demonstrating exercises, monitoring participants, and providing encouragement or basic guidance. Exercise Assistants commonly work in gyms, rehabilitation centers, or community wellness programs. They play a key role in ensuring a safe and motivating environment for individuals working towards their fitness or recovery goals.

What is the difference between Exercise Assistant vs Physical Therapy Aide?

AspectExercise AssistantPhysical Therapy Aide
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; certification often preferredHigh school diploma; on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentGyms, fitness centers, rehabilitation facilitiesPhysical therapy clinics, hospitals
Employer & Industry UsageFitness and rehab industryHealthcare and rehabilitation industry
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in fitness/rehabAssisting physical therapists in patient care

Exercise Assistants and Physical Therapy Aides often work in similar environments, supporting fitness and rehabilitation activities. While both roles require basic certifications and involve assisting clients or patients, Exercise Assistants focus more on fitness and general rehabilitation, whereas Physical Therapy Aides work directly under physical therapists in clinical settings. The choice depends on your career interest in fitness versus healthcare support roles.

Are there jobs that pay you to workout?

Exercise Assistant roles often involve helping clients with workouts and fitness routines, and some positions may offer compensation for active participation or coaching. These jobs typically require physical activity, good communication skills, and sometimes certification in fitness or personal training. While most fitness jobs pay for time worked, some programs or challenges may offer incentives or stipends for participation, but generally, you are paid for your work rather than just for working out.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Exercise assistants typically do not earn $4,000 per week without a degree; most roles in this field pay hourly wages that are significantly lower. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include specialized trades like commercial diving, certain sales positions, or entrepreneurship, but these are not related to exercise assistance. Achieving such income usually requires extensive experience, certifications, or business ownership.

What is a fitness assistant?

A fitness assistant is a professional who supports fitness instructors and trainers by helping clients with exercises, setting up equipment, and ensuring safety during workouts. They often have knowledge of exercise techniques and may hold certifications such as CPR or fitness training credentials. Their role helps improve client experience and maintain a safe workout environment.

What are some common challenges Exercise Assistants face when supporting clients during fitness sessions?

Exercise Assistants often encounter challenges such as adapting workouts to meet individual client needs, especially for those with injuries or limited mobility. They must balance providing encouragement while ensuring safety and proper technique. Additionally, they may need to adjust to varying energy levels and motivation among clients, requiring strong communication and observation skills. Collaborating closely with trainers and other staff is essential to deliver effective support and a positive experience for all participants.
What cities in Alabama are hiring for Exercise Assistant jobs? Cities in Alabama with the most Exercise Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Exercise Assistant job openings in Alabama as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,197 per year, or $16.4 per hour.
Exercise Physiologist

Exercise Physiologist

Children's of Alabama

Hoover, AL • On-site

Part-time

Posted 4 days ago


Children's Of Alabama rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

729th of 1,020 rated hospitals


Job description

In PT and OT at Children's South Hoover
Work schedule will be Part-time Benefits Ineligible on the Day Shift, Th AM; Fri all day.
Summary:
The Exercise Physiologist provides exercise/fitness assessment and education to patients and families involved in a childhood obesity clinic at Children's of Alabama.
Other information:
Education
  • Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science or related field Master's Degree preferred
Experience
  • One year of clinical experience with prior exposure to pediatrics preferred.
Licensures, Certifications, and/or Registries
  • ACSM - EP (current or within 6 months of hire).
  • Current BLS Certification.

Credentials with Equivalent Qualifications:
Essential:
* Basic Life Support
Nonessential:
* Certified Exercise Physiologist
Education with Equivalent Qualifications:
Essential:
* Bachelors of Science or Arts in Exercise Science
Nonessential:
* Masters Degree in Exercise Science
Experience with Equivalent Qualifications:
Nonessential:
* 1 Year Staff Level
The PT & OT Department at Children's of Alabama encompasses the following clinical areas/services: inpatient hospital (Benjamin Russell and McWane buildings), outpatient hospital (McWane), outpatient Children's on 3rd, outpatient at Lakeshore, Sports Medicine PT (Lowder building), Early Intervention (EI), and the Comprehensive Behavioral Interventions for Tics (CBIT clinic). We employ over 30 of each PT/PTA and OT/COTA staff members in addition to 4 EI Service Coordinators, 2 Speech Therapists, 4 Aides, and other support staff. We are involved with patient care in all areas of the hospital including pediatric/cardiac/neonatal intensive care units, Pulmonary, Orthopedics, Rehabilitation, Burns, Hematology/Oncology, general surgery, special care unit, same day surgery, and are frequently called upon to assist with skilled therapy needs in countless hospital-based outpatient clinics. We have a highly advanced robotics program, 3D gait lab, casting clinic, and a well-respected and established Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy program. We care for children birth to 18 with a wide variety of physical, sensory, and/or functional impairments. We emphasize family-centered and episodic care in our outpatient locations and seek to empower and engage parents/custodians as the primary caregiver, advocate, and cheerleader for their child. Our department motto is: "Developing skills for life". Our aim is to assist patients and families in achieving meaningful goals and functional outcomes through education, evidence based and cutting-edge treatment, and the provision of appropriate equipment/technology when and where indicated. Our website is: https://www.childrensal.org/physical-occupational-therapy

What Children's Of Alabama employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Children's of Alabama logo

About Children's of Alabama

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Since 1911, Children’s of Alabama has provided specialized medical care for ill and injured children. Ranked among the best children’s hospitals in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, Children’s serves patients from every county in Alabama and nearly every state. With more than 3.5 million square feet, it is one of the largest pediatric medical facilities in the United States. Children’s offers inpatient and outpatient services at its Russell Campus on Birmingham’s historic Southside with additional specialty services provided at Children’s South, Children’s on 3rd and in Huntsville and Montgomery. Primary medical care is provided in more than a dozen communities across central Alabama. Children’s is the only health system in Alabama dedicated solely to the care and treatment of children. It is a private, not-for-profit medical center that serves as the teaching hospital for the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) pediatric medicine, surgery, psychiatry, research and residency programs. The medical staff consists of UAB faculty and Children’s full-time physicians as well as private practicing community physicians. Our staff is committed to providing the finest pediatric healthcare to all children. We built our legacy on our core values of trust, teamwork, compassion, innovation and commitment. We know that every time we come through these doors we will live up to our high standards as we work to make a difference in children's lives. You've chosen a career that’s all about care. If you want to make a difference the life of children and their families, if you want to advance in your profession, if you appreciate good benefits, and want to work with outstanding medical professionals in a variety of areas, then Children’s of Alabama is where you belong.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Birmingham, AL, US

Year founded

1911

Social media