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Exercise Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Riverside Health System Non-Providers

$18.20 - $23.68/hr

Overview Works under the supervision of Director of Clinical Wellness to assist in the development ... As part of the Clinical Wellness Team, the Exercise Specialist will instruct clinical wellness ...

Riverside

$18.20 - $23.68/hr

Overview Works under the supervision of Director of Clinical Wellness to assist in the development ... As part of the Clinical Wellness Team, the Exercise Specialist will instruct clinical wellness ...

Riverside Health System

Exercise Specialist

Gloucester, VA · On-site

$18.20 - $23.68/hr

Overview Works under the supervision of Director of Clinical Wellness to assist in the development ... As part of the Clinical Wellness Team, the Exercise Specialist will instruct clinical wellness ...

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All JobsExercise JobsExercise Assistant JobsExercise Assistant Jobs in Virginia

Exercise Assistant information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$18

$30

How much do exercise assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise assistant in Virginia is $18.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.96 and $20.34 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 are the most commonly searched types of Exercise jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Exercise jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Exercise Assistant jobs in Virginia? For Exercise Assistant jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Exercise Assistant jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Exercise Assistant jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Exercise Assistant jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Exercise Assistant job openings:
Exercise Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Exercise Assistant job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,325 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

Exercise Specialist

Riverside Health System Non-Providers

$18.20 - $23.68/hr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Gloucester, Virginia

Hiring Range

$18.20 - $23.68/Hourly Actual pay is determined based on job-related factors such as relevant experience, education, credentials, skills, internal equity, and business needs.
Overview
Works under the supervision of Director of Clinical Wellness to assist in the development and implementation of clinical wellness programming for the Wellness and Fitness Centers. As part of the Clinical Wellness Team, the Exercise Specialist will instruct clinical wellness exercise classes designed for special populations, as well as provide fitness assessments to the community. These assessments include: VO2max testing and submaximal testing, body composition testing, strength testing, flexibility testing, and exercise prescription. The Exercise Specialist will work to develop positive relationships with patients of Riverside Health System and the community as a whole.
What you will do
  • Demonstrates ability to perform the following general duties in compliance with the policies and procedures: Orients new users to fitness area and program. Conducts new user fitness assessments in accordance with facility/American College of Sports Medicine standards. Initial assessment of each user's goals with consideration of individual limitations; ongoing assessment of each user's progress and adjustment of their fitness program to accommodate the assessment; and provides continuous fitness training for the user.
  • Uses research and participant feedback to continuously develop programs.
  • The Exercise Specialist is responsible for closing the loop for all patients referred to Clinical Wellness. This includes providing end of program feedback via Epic and/or following up if someone has had issues participating in the program.
  • Promotes clinical wellness programs to providers throughout the Health System by attending staff meetings.

Qualifications
Education
  • Bachelors Degree, Exercise Science/Health & Wellness or Related (Preferred)

Experience
  • 1 year Experience in Fitness or Health/Wellness (Required)

Licenses and Certifications
  • American Course Exercise Personal Trainer (ACE) - American Council on Exercise (ACE) (Preferred)
  • Certified Auto External Defibrillator (AED) - American Heart Association/American Red Cross/American Safety and Health Institute (AHA/ARC) within 30 Days(Required)
  • Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) - National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) (Preferred)

To learn more about being a team member with Riverside Health System visit us at https://www.riversideonline.com/careers.

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