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Exercise Assistant Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

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Exercise Assistant information

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$9

$18

$30

How much do exercise assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise assistant in Minnesota is $18.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $20.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 are popular job titles related to Exercise Assistant jobs in Minnesota? For Exercise Assistant jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Exercise Assistant jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Exercise Assistant jobs in Minnesota are:
Exercise Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Exercise Assistant job openings in Minnesota as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 48% Full Time, 46% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,288 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

Exercise Physiologist | Cardiac Rehab

St. Cloud Hospital

Saint Cloud, MN

$28.34 - $42.50/hr

Full-time, Temporary

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Make a difference in the lives of heart patients as an Exercise Physiologist in Cardiac Rehab. In this position you will play a crucial role in the recovery and health maintenance of patients with cardiovascular conditions by developing treatment programs to assist in rehabilitative and behavioral goals. You will utilize assessment options to identify and evaluate patient therapeutic exercise needs and health behavior modifications using techniques and judgements pertinent to exercise physiology, CentraCare Heart and Vascular Center, and ACSM guidelines. 

Schedule

  • Temporary position: June 2026-December 2026 
  • Full-time | 64 hours every two weeks | St. Cloud Hospital 

  • Day | Monday-Friday | 7am-4pm 

Pay 

  • Starting pay begins at $28.34 per hour and increases with experience

    • Pay range: $28.34-42.50 per hour

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Physiology, or related field, required. Master's Degree preferred.
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) Current American Heart Association (AHA) Healthcare Provider card required per established policy.
  • Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) required
  • American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Clinical Exercise Physiologist certification within 1 year.
  • 2 years of experience working in a cardiac rehabilitation program of similar size OR internship at CentraCare Heart and Vascular Center preferred.
  • Strong working knowledge of ECG interpretation, anatomy, physiology and pathology of heart disease.
  • Skilled in monitoring blood pressure, heart rate, and in the operation of monitoring equipment.


CentraCare has made a commitment to diversity in its workforce. All individuals including, but not limited to, individuals with disabilities, are encouraged to apply. CentraCare is an EEO/AA employer.

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