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Exercise Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Therapeutic Exercise and Activities: Lead patients through prescribed exercises and therapeutic ... Physical Therapist Assistants instruct patients on proper exercise techniques, monitor their ...

Zoning Administrative Assistant

Gary, IN · On-site

$18 - $24.25/hr

The Administrative Assistant is responsible for receiving and processing departmental applications ... exercise supervisory authority. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Customer Service * Serve as ...

The Group Exercise Instructor I is responsible for providing high-quality instruction and guidance ... Keeps accurate class attendance records, aiming for continual retention and growth. * Assist in ...

Ability to effectively interact with all levels of CNA's internal and external business partners. * Ability to work independently. * Good analytical and problem solving skills. * Ability to exercise ...

... 's internal and external business partners. 4. Ability to work independently. 5. Strong analytical and problem solving skills. 6. Ability to exercise independent judgment and to make critical ...

Ability to effectively interact with all levels of CNA's internal and external business partners. * Ability to work independently. * Good analytical and problem solving skills. * Ability to exercise ...

Office Assistant

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

The Office Assistant is responsible and accountable for the maintenance of health records and mail ... The employee is expected to exercise good judgment and confidentiality and function independently.

Executive Assistant

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Executive Assistant Employment Type: Full-Time Reports to: Chief Executive Officer The Executive ... Demonstrated ability to anticipate executive needs, exercise independent judgment, and proactively ...

Office Assistant

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

The Office Assistant is responsible and accountable for the maintenance of health records and mail ... The employee is expected to exercise good judgment and confidentiality and function independently.

Office Assistant

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

The Office Assistant is responsible and accountable for the maintenance of health records and mail ... The employee is expected to exercise good judgment and confidentiality and function independently.

Showing results 41-60

Exercise Assistant information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$19

$32

How much do exercise assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 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.

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 the most commonly searched types of Exercise jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Exercise 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:

Infographic showing various Exercise Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% 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.

Job description

Position Summary

The Senior Services Assistant helps maintain a safe and welcoming atmosphere in the senior day program by treating all participants with kindness, dignity, and respect. This position provides support for daily programming in the Senior Center, as well as assistance to participants with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) during their attendance. This support will include assisting with meal preparation and service, helping attendees to and from vehicles and different areas of the building, leading and assisting with program activities, and helping participants with personal needs like toileting.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

Program Support

  • Prepare program space each morning with necessary supplies and materials, including touch-up cleaning as necessary.
  • Support participants with embarking and disembarking from vehicles, including donning and doffing outerwear, fastening seat belts, and securing wheelchairs.
  • Support hygienic meal and snack preparation, serving, and clean up, including cutting up food items, setting out beverages, and other tasks required for meal service.
  • Support morning exercise program by either leading chair exercises or setting up video link for fitness leader and participating with participants.
  • Assist with planning, setting up for, and executing recreational and therapeutic program activities, including physical fitness, games, arts and crafts, educational activities, field trips, and special events.

Participant Personal Support

  • Review person-centered plans of care with program director and program nurse to be sufficiently cognizant of individual participant needs.
  • Assist participants with ADLs and occupational therapy activities as indicated by their care plans, including some level of support for toileting, eating, dressing, transferring, and walking.
  • Assist participants with program activities, initiating and encouraging socialization among participants.
  • Observe and report pertinent information regarding participant needs, behaviors, or a change in mental or physical status to the program director.
  • Be alert at all times to the whereabouts of every participant, making sure the facility is secure for participants who may have a tendency to wander.

Documentation and Compliance

  • Document activities and maintain timely records as required for program operations.
  • Attend training in order to ensure adherence to all agency policies and procedures including confidentiality, health, safety, and emergency procedures.
  • Perform other duties as required to assist LCHC in achieving its mission.

Required Skills or Abilities

  • Effective interpersonal and customer service skills, including the ability to communicate clearly with participants, their family members, and staff.
  • Ability to use computer software to use email, complete computer-based training, and document in the electronic patient record.
  • Physical ability to assist participants with ADLs and stamina to be actively supporting program activities throughout the day.
  • Capable of exemplifying the values of Lawndale Christian Health Center in all circumstances.

Required Knowledge, Experience, or Licensure/Registration

  • High school diploma or General Education Diploma (GED)
  • Experience with older adults, particularly ones experiencing Alzheimer's or a related dementia, preferred.