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Exercise Assistant Jobs in Ankeny, IA (NOW HIRING)

Power Wellness

Fitness Assistant

Clive, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $17/hr

Position Title: Fitness Assistant Location: MercyOne Health & Fitness Center Type: Part time ... exercise instruction for members and guests. 4. Arrive as first responder to all medical ...

inno

Part-Time Physical Therapist Assistant

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$27.25 - $36/hr

Our Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) provides physical therapy services to patients requiring ... Reinforce home exercise programs and safety education as directed by the Physical Therapist.

Leeds West Groups (LWG)

Assistant Manager

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$45K - $60K/yr

An Assistant Store Manager must exercise discretion and independent judgment with respect to matters that significantly impact business operations. Essential Functions, Duties, and Responsibilities ...

Progress Industries

Assistant Coordinator

Newton, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $23/hr

Progress Industries is seeking a motivated and dependable Assistant Coordinator to provide ... Ability to exercise sound judgment and make timely decisions. * Ability to communicate ...

lwg

Assistant Manager

Des Moines, IA

An Assistant Store Manager must exercise discretion and independent judgment with respect to matters that significantly impact business operations. Essential Functions, Duties, and Responsibilities ...

Progress Industries

Assistant Coordinator

Newton, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $23/hr

Progress Industries is seeking a motivated and dependable Assistant Coordinator to provide ... Ability to exercise sound judgment and make timely decisions. * Ability to communicate ...

Summit LLC

Bus Assistant

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$13.50 - $17.50/hr

Exercise student management through communication and discipline per Company policy. * Document and report any violations or conduct concerns to appropriate authority. * Physically assist passengers ...

Summit LLC

Bus Assistant

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$13.50 - $17.50/hr

Exercise student management through communication and discipline per Company policy. * Document and report any violations or conduct concerns to appropriate authority. * Physically assist passengers ...

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All JobsExercise JobsExercise Assistant JobsExercise Assistant Jobs in Ankeny, IA

Exercise Assistant information

See Ankeny, IA salary details

$9

$18

$29

How much do exercise assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise assistant in Ankeny, IA is $18.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.45 and $19.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an exercise assistant?

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 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Exercise Assistant jobs in Ankeny, IA?

For Exercise Assistant jobs in Ankeny, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Exercise Assistant jobs in Ankeny, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Exercise Assistant jobs in Ankeny, IA are:

What cities near Ankeny, IA are hiring for Exercise Assistant jobs?

Cities near Ankeny, IA with the most Exercise Assistant job openings:

Exercise Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Exercise Assistant job openings in Ankeny, IA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 40% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,981 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Fitness Assistant

Power Wellness

Clive, IA • On-site

$15.75 - $17/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Power Wellness rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 63 rated gym and leisure clubs

Job description

Position Title: Fitness Assistant
Location: MercyOne Health & Fitness Center
Type: Part time
Summary:
Join our team of full time and part time staff at MercyOne Health & Fitness Center. Our facility is managed by Power Wellness Management, a company that specializes in managing state-of-the-art medically integrated health and fitness centers. Power Wellness is a medical fitness industry pioneer who improves the lives of clients with a unique and customized approach to medical fitness center development and management. Their turnkey method takes away the stress of the development and management process allowing clients to focus on other areas of their business.
The part time Fitness Assistant is responsible for providing the highest level of customer service for members and guests by maintaining order and safety on the fitness floor.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
1. Oversee all interactions on the fitness floor and maintain a safe environment for all members and guests of the center.
2. Schedule all appointments for fitness assessments, orientations and follow up appointments complying with established protocols.
3. Provide fitness floor supervision, orientations and basic exercise instruction for members and guests.
4. Arrive as first responder to all medical emergencies with urgency, bringing AED and additional first aid supplies. Complete incident report for all medical emergencies.
5. Assist in the planning and implementation of member retention programs.
6. Promote and effectively sell all ancillary services including, but not limited to personal training, medically integrated programs, wellness coaching and nutrition services.
7. Maintain knowledge of all events and activities within the center.
8. Perform facility rounds every 30-60 minutes including monitoring of all pool, locker rooms and fitness related areas.
9. Perform opening and closing procedures on weekdays, weekends and holidays as scheduled.
10. Maintain cleanliness of fitness areas and equipment, inspect equipment and upholstery and report any required maintenance or repair, removing the equipment from service until maintenance is completed.
11. Ability to lift 45 pounds.
12. Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
• High School diploma or GED required.
• Enrolled in a health-related, exercise science, kinesiology, or physical education program and working towards a bachelor's degree preferred.
• Prior work experience or an internship in the fitness industry required.
• Must be outgoing, personable and have the ability to motivate members and actively teach assigned courses.
• CPR/AED certification required within 90 days of hire (provided by Power Wellness)
• Nationally recognized NCCA accredited certification preferred.
• Certification for some specialty group exercise class instruction is required as needed.
• Must possess excellent inter-personal and communication skills, and the ability to work with members in a positive, service based manner.
• Ability to multi-task and maintain a controlled and professional demeanor.
• Proficient computer skills.
We Improve Life By Delivering Excellence In Health, Fitness & Wellness Management.
Integrity * Excellence * Humanity * Passion * Creativity * Humility

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