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Exercise Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Insight

EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGIST

Chicago, IL · On-site

$30 - $36/hr

The Exercise Physiologist will also be responsible for evaluating, educating, and referring ... * Assist in continuous quality improvement by completing necessary audits and providing findings ...

Insight

EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGIST

Chicago, IL · On-site

$30 - $36/hr

The Exercise Physiologist will also be responsible for evaluating, educating, and referring ... * Assist in continuous quality improvement by completing necessary audits and providing findings ...

Onbe

Client Support Manager

Buffalo Grove, IL

Attend internal and external client meetings. * Assist Sales with the Account Plan and Situational Analysis (annual exercise). * Assist the Director of Client Success in mentoring and coaching Client ...

Onbe

Client Support Manager

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

Attend internal and external client meetings. * Assist Sales with the Account Plan and Situational Analysis (annual exercise). * Assist the Director of Client Success in mentoring and coaching Client ...

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All JobsExercise JobsExercise Assistant JobsExercise Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL

Exercise Assistant information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$19

$32

How much do exercise assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise assistant in Chicago, IL is $19.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.79 and $21.47 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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Exercise jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Exercise Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL? For Exercise Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Exercise Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Exercise Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Exercise Assistant jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Exercise Assistant job openings:
Exercise Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Exercise Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,504 per year, or $20 per hour.
EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGIST

EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGIST

Insight

Chicago, IL • On-site

$30 - $36/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Insight Enterprises rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

53rd of 230 rated it services

Job description

WE ARE INSIGHT:
At Insight Hospital and Medical Center- Chicago, we believe there is a better way to provide quality healthcare while achieving health equity. Our Chicago location looks forward to working closely with our neighbors and residents, to build a full-service community hospital in the Bronzeville area of Chicago; creating a comprehensive plan to increase services and meet community needs. With a growing team that is dedicated to delivering world-class service to everyone we meet, it is our mission to deliver the most compassionate, loving, expert, and impactful care in the world to our patients. Be a part of the Insight Chicago team that provides PATIENT CARE SECOND TO NONE! If you would like to be a part of our future team, please apply now!
Short Summary:
Under minimal supervision, the Exercise Physiologist is responsible for coordinating the activities of patients in outpatient cardiac rehabilitation, pulmonary rehabilitation, clinical exercise programs, and employee fitness programs. The Exercise Physiologist will also be responsible for evaluating, educating, and referring inpatients to outpatient programs when the cardiopulmonary rehabilitation nurse is unavailable. In addition, the Exercise Physiologist provides expertise in exercise physiology, exercise equipment use, and fitness program design.
These duties are to be performed in a highly confidential manner, following the mission, values, and behaviors of Insight Hospital and Medical Center. Employees are further expected to provide a high quality of care, service, and kindness toward all patients, staff, physicians, volunteers, and guests.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Accountable to the manager of the cardiopulmonary rehabilitation and wellness program and the coordinator of the cardiac rehabilitation program.
  • Recruits and schedules new patients, and assists with orientating the patients to all phases of the cardiopulmonary programs.
  • Performs and documents family/patient education, risk factor identification, monitoring phase II and III exercise sessions, phase I education and evaluations when needed, and dietary counseling.
  • Reports patient's progress/problems to the appropriate physician.
  • Recognizes electrocardiographic abnormalities and informs the RN who then will appropriately respond and report this information to the appropriate personnel.
  • Meets with the medical director to review and discuss patient progress and patient exercise prescriptions, and to discuss any patient concerns or problems.
  • Functions as a liaison with physicians.
  • Responsible for knowing how to operate emergency equipment, and having it immediately available during exercise sessions.
  • Provides expertise and information in the area of exercise physiology and exercise equipment to patients and staff.
  • Provides for patient safety; monitors equipment and notifies the appropriate person of all broken or unsafe equipment.
  • Assist in continuous quality improvement by completing necessary audits and providing findings to the manager.
  • Assists the coordinator of the pulmonary rehabilitation program during pulmonary rehabilitation.
  • Assists in performing heart screens and fitness testing for the community and public service agencies as applicable.
  • Responsible for overseeing the clinical exercise programs and the employee fitness program.
  • Responsible for overseeing and advising exercise physiology interns who complete their internships in our department.
  • Maintains an adequate inventory of supplies.
  • Serves as a role model of cardiovascular health.
  • Alteration of schedule or work assignments in response to workload and/or staffing situations.
  • Performs all other duties as assigned.
  • Monday-Friday 7:30 am. -4:00 p.m.

Requirements:
  • Master's Degree in exercise physiology (Master of Science in Movement Sciences) preferred.
  • Clinical exercise physiology required. *
  • One to three years of cardiac rehabilitation or exercise testing experience is preferred.
  • ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine) certification is required, or certification from a similar organization. *
  • Current CPR is required. *
  • ACLS certification eligible required. *
  • Must have completed an internship in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation required. *
  • Excellent communication skills are required.
  • Familiarity with exercise equipment and exercise training and prescription required.
  • Knowledge of emergency equipment use is required.
  • Knowledge of basic EKGs and arrhythmia interpretation is required.
  • Knowledge of pharmacology and the effects of medications with exercise is required.
  • Must be able to function in a stressful environment required.
  • Maintains knowledge of current trends and developments in the field preferred.

Benefits:
  • Paid Sick Time - effective 90 days after employment
  • Paid Vacation Time - effective 90 days after employment
  • Health, vision & dental benefits - eligible at 30 days, following the 1st of the following month
  • Short and long-term disability and basic life insurance - after 30 days of employment

Insight Employees are required to be vaccinated for COVID-19 as a condition of employment, subject to accommodation for medical or sincerely held religious beliefs.
Insight is an equal-opportunity employer and values workplace diversity!

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