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Exercise Assistant Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

... and exercise programs. * Receive full restorative training provided onsite. No restorative ... Required) * Assist in the restorative care of patients as directed. * Exclusive restorative ...

CNA Restorative

Moose Lake, MN · On-site

$17 - $23/hr

... and exercise programs. * Receive full restorative training provided onsite. No restorative ... Required) * Assist in the restorative care of patients as directed. * Exclusive restorative ...

CNA - Wellness Instructor Restorative: PRN Working directly with the Rehab Therapy Team Job Type ... and exercise programs. * Receive full restorative training provided onsite. No restorative ...

Restorative CNA - PRN

Chatfield, MN · On-site

$15 - $23/hr

CNA - Wellness Instructor Restorative: PRN Working directly with the Rehab Therapy Team Job Type ... and exercise programs. * Receive full restorative training provided onsite. No restorative ...

Executive Assistant

Minnetonka, MN · On-site

$68K - $106K/yr

The Executive Assistant serves as a strategic partner to senior leadership, delivering high-level ... Strong ability to exercise independent judgment and exercise discretion regarding confidential ...

Executive Assistant

Minnetonka, MN · On-site

$68K - $106K/yr

The Executive Assistant serves as a strategic partner to senior leadership, delivering high-level ... Strong ability to exercise independent judgment and exercise discretion regarding confidential ...

Enjoy a rewarding career at CentraCare as a Patient Access Assistant in Sauk Centre! Our Patient ... This role requires independent analysis, exercise of judgment and detailed knowledge of facility ...

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Exercise Assistant information

See Minnesota salary details

$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.
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.

Student Worker KINES 375 Physiology of Exercise TA

St Olaf College

Northfield, MN • On-site

$11.75 - $12.75/hr

Part-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Job Title: Student Teaching Assistant (TA) - Exercise Physiology

Classification: Student Employee (non-exempt)

Name and Address of Employer: St. Olaf College, 1520 St. Olaf Ave, Northfield, MN 55057

If the position requires the student to work off campus, provide the name and address here:


Department Name: Kinesiology

Unit Number (5 digits): 11290

Length of Position: See Employment Authorization  

Contact Person/Supervisor: Kinesiology Department Chair

Wage Range: $11.75-12.75/hour


Hours: During class hours, plus additional time as needed for set-up / review help

Description of the Position: (Purpose of the Position): 

Students work with Kinesiology Department Faculty to prepare for labs. Students also assist faculty and students during lab sessions.

Transferable Skills: 

Communication                             Human Relations                     Problem Solving

Motivation/Leadership                  Essential Work Skills               Research/Quantitative

Organization/Planning                   Technical

Duties and Responsibilities: 

  • Assist with undergraduate exercise physiology labs, including set-up, teaching and clean up

  • Lead study sessions with undergraduate exercise physiology students on needed basis

  • Maintain all exercise physiology labs and equipment, check instruments/equipment regularly

  • Take care of towels, keep equipment and materials in proper places

  • Set up lab equipment prior to start of class on a needed basis

  • Keep labs clean and tidy

  • Correct lab manuals/classroom work

  • Assist during field trips

Qualifications: (Education/Experience/Skills):  

  • Must have successfully completed KINES 375 Physiology of Exercise. Additional Kinesiology coursework is preferred.

  • Knowledge of each lab procedure as well as calibration and troubleshoot all equipment (e.g. Metabolic carts, HUMAC Isokinetic dynamometer, BodPod, hydrostatic weighing tank, Wingate ergometer, Vertec, Jump Mat)

  • Knowledge of safety procedures 

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills essential

  • Ability to interact with a wide variety of people in a friendly, professional manner

  • Strong organizational and time management skills required

  • Detail-oriented, work independently and confidentially

  • Attendance is required


Physical and Environmental Factors:

This position requires crouching, kneeling/crawling, stooping, twisting/pivoting, climbing/balancing, reaching overhead, grasping/handling, pushing/pulling, and lifting and carrying objects up to 50 lbs. to perform the essential functions. It also requires exposure to loud noise, as well as rare exposure to vibrations, wet or humid conditions indoors, extreme cold, and extreme heat to perform the essential functions. Protective equipment is required for some essential functions. Candidates must possess the ability to safely perform the physical work required of all duties with or without reasonable accommodation.


This job description is for general information purposes.  It is not intended to list all duties and responsibilities of the position.  This job description is subject to change at any time by St. Olaf College, with or without prior notice.