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Exercise Physiologist Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Trinity Health

Exercise Specialist

Davenport, IA · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Exercise Physiology * ACSM Certification if not Master's prepared in Exercise Physiology Colleagues of MercyOne Health System enjoy competitive compensation with a full benefits ...

Trinityhealth

Exercise Specialist

Davenport, IA · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Exercise Physiology * ACSM Certification if not Master's prepared in Exercise Physiology Colleagues of MercyOne Health System enjoy competitive compensation with a full benefits ...

Trinity Health

Exercise Specialist

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$21.79 - $32.68/hr

Bachelor's degree in Exercise Physiology or related field * No experience required * Basic Life Support within 6 months Pay scale: * $21.79 - $32.68 * Actual compensation will fall within the range ...

Trinity Health

Exercise Specialist

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$21.79 - $32.68/hr

Bachelor's degree in Exercise Physiology or related field * No experience required * Basic Life Support within 6 months Pay scale: * $21.79 - $32.68 * Actual compensation will fall within the range ...

Trinityhealth

Exercise Specialist

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$21.79 - $32.68/hr

Bachelor's degree in Exercise Physiology or related field * No experience required * Basic Life Support within 6 months Pay scale: * $21.79 - $32.68 * Actual compensation will fall within the range ...

Trinityhealth

Exercise Specialist

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$21.79 - $32.68/hr

Bachelor's degree in Exercise Physiology or related field * No experience required * Basic Life Support within 6 months Pay scale: * $21.79 - $32.68 * Actual compensation will fall within the range ...

Power Wellness

Wellness Navigator

Clive, IA · On-site

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

... Exercise Physiologist (CEP) or Registered Clinical -Exercise Physiologist (RCEP) preferred. - Must possess excellent interpersonal and communication skills, and the ability to work with members in a ...

Genesis Health Clubs

Personal Trainer

Clive, IA · On-site

Athletic Training, Chiropractic, Exercise Physiology, Exercise Science, Fitness Management, Human Performance, Kinesiology, Nutrition, Physical Education, Physical Therapy, Sports Management, Sports ...

Genesis Health Clubs

Personal Trainer

Clive, IA · On-site

Athletic Training, Chiropractic, Exercise Physiology, Exercise Science, Fitness Management, Human Performance, Kinesiology, Nutrition, Physical Education, Physical Therapy, Sports Management, Sports ...

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All JobsExercise Physiologist JobsExercise Physiologist Jobs in Iowa

Exercise Physiologist information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$26

$44

How much do exercise physiologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise physiologist in Iowa is $26.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.42 and $31.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Do Exercise Physiologists Do?

Exercise Physiologists are health professionals who assist their patients in improving their lifestyles and maintaining good health. They may work with patients who have heart disease, diabetes, or pulmonary disease to regain their strength and health. Sometimes they also work with amateur and professional athletes, providing training and tips to optimize their performance and prevent injury. Exercise Physiologists evaluate their patient’s health using stress tests and other examinations to assess cardiovascular function and metabolism. After reviewing the results, they design fitness plans to achieve their patient’s goals.

What is the starting salary for an exercise physiologist?

The starting salary for an exercise physiologist typically ranges from $40,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on location, education, and certification level. Entry-level positions often require a bachelor's degree and relevant certifications such as ACSM or NSCA. Salaries can increase with experience and advanced credentials.

What is the difference between Exercise Physiologist vs Physical Therapist?

AspectExercise PhysiologistPhysical Therapist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Exercise Science, certification (e.g., ACSM)Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), state licensure
Work EnvironmentFitness centers, rehab clinics, hospitalsHospitals, outpatient clinics, rehab centers
Employer & IndustryHealthcare, sports, wellness industriesHealthcare, rehabilitation services

Exercise Physiologists focus on improving physical fitness and managing chronic diseases through exercise programs, often working in wellness and rehab settings. Physical Therapists diagnose and treat injuries, providing hands-on therapy and rehabilitation. While both roles promote health and recovery, their credentials, scope, and work environments differ significantly.

What are some common challenges Exercise Physiologists face when working with diverse patient populations?

Exercise Physiologists often encounter challenges such as adapting exercise plans to accommodate patients with varying medical conditions, ages, and fitness levels. Communication is key, as explaining complex exercise concepts in a clear and motivating way can be difficult, especially when clients have different backgrounds or language barriers. Additionally, collaborating with multidisciplinary healthcare teams and staying updated on the latest research and protocols ensures individualized, evidence-based care. These challenges require flexibility, empathy, and strong interpersonal skills.

Does an exercise physiologist need a degree?

Yes, exercise physiologists typically need at least a bachelor's degree in exercise science, physiology, or a related field. Many employers prefer or require certification, such as the Certified Exercise Physiologist credential from the American College of Sports Medicine, which may also require relevant coursework and practical experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Exercise Physiologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Exercise Physiologist, you need a solid background in exercise science, human physiology, and anatomy, usually supported by a relevant degree and professional certification such as ACSM-EP or CEP. Familiarity with exercise testing equipment, biometric tracking tools, and health assessment software is crucial for daily tasks. Strong interpersonal skills, motivational abilities, and clear communication help in building client trust and promoting healthy behavior change. These skills ensure accurate assessments, effective program development, and positive client outcomes in clinical and fitness settings.

What is an Exercise Physiologist?

An Exercise Physiologist is a health professional who studies the body’s responses to physical activity and designs exercise programs to improve health, fitness, and performance. They work with individuals who have chronic diseases, injuries, or disabilities, as well as healthy clients seeking to enhance their physical fitness. Exercise physiologists are trained to assess fitness levels, develop personalized exercise plans, and monitor progress to ensure safety and effectiveness. They may work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, fitness facilities, or research settings.

What can you do as an exercise physiologist?

An exercise physiologist designs and implements exercise programs to improve health, fitness, and recovery for patients with chronic diseases or injuries. They assess physical fitness, monitor progress, and may work in clinical, rehabilitation, or fitness settings, often requiring certification and knowledge of human anatomy and physiology.

What jobs can I get with a bachelor's in exercise physiology?

With a bachelor's in exercise physiology, you can pursue roles such as exercise physiologist, fitness trainer, wellness coach, or rehabilitation specialist. These positions often involve working in clinical, sports, or fitness settings and may require knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and exercise programming.
More about Exercise Physiologist jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Exercise Physiologist jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Exercise Physiologist jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Exercise Physiologist jobs in Iowa? For Exercise Physiologist jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Exercise Physiologist jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Exercise Physiologist jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Exercise Physiologist jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Exercise Physiologist job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Exercise Physiologist jobs in IA? For Exercise Physiologist jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Exercise Physiologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Exercise Physiologist job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,392 per year, or $26.6 per hour.
Exercise Physiologist

Exercise Physiologist

Rochester Regional Health

Muscatine, IA

$22 - $30/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Rochester Regional Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 218 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

304th of 890 rated healthcare providers

Job description

SUMMARY

Provide continuous education and guidance to the patient and family in phases I, II, and III of cardiac rehabilitation with regard to risk factor notification and the rehabilitative process.

STATUS: Full Time

LOCATION: Unity at Ridgeway - 2655 Ridgeway Ave Rochester, NY 14626

DEPARTMENT: Cardiac Rehab

SCHEDULE: Day shift, Monday - Friday; typically 6 to 10-hour shifts. May be scheduled to work at multiple locations, Unity Ridgeway and/or Batavia

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Attends to patients during exercise training sessions under the supervision of nursing staff. Accurately assesses cardiovascular response to exercise including: blood pressure, heart rate, and change in cardiac rhythm.

  • Recognizes abnormal responses to exercise, including changes in cardiac rhythm, hypertension, nausea, and chest discomfort. Assesses complications and assists with emergency treatment as directed.

  • Maintains accurate records and documentation of patient progress. Writes exit reports and maintains goal-setting meetings during the 12-week phase 2 program.

  • Provides patient instruction for warm-ups, dynabands, the proper use of equipment, and exercise procedures.

  • Provides continuous education and guidance to the patient and family in phases 2 and 3 of cardiac rehabilitation with regard to risk factor modification and the rehabilitative process. Ensures that the patient has a good understanding of safe and appropriate activity levels.

  • Maintains professional competence, teaching ability, verbal and written communication skills, and effective interaction with individuals and groups.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • B.S. in Exercise Science or closely related field required.

  • Required Licensure / Certification Skills:
    Basic Life Support certification required. Must successfully complete Cardiac Arrhythmia and ACLS Certification within the first 6 months of employment.

  • Must possess personal characteristics that reflect assertiveness, self-motivation, and a personal commitment to health and fitness.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Previous hospital or educational experience desirable.

EDUCATION:

BS (Required)

LICENSES / CERTIFICATIONS:

BLS - Basic Life Support - American Heart Association (AHA)American Heart Association (AHA)

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

M - Medium Work - Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects; Requires frequent walking, standing or squatting.

For disease specific care programs refer to the program specific requirements of the department for further specifications on experience and educational expectations, including continuing education requirements.

Any physical requirements reported by a prospective employee and/or employee's physician or delegate will be considered for accommodations.

PAY RANGE:

$22.00 - $30.00

CITY:

Rochester

POSTAL CODE:

14626

The listed base pay range is a good faith representation of current potential base pay for a successful full time applicant. It may be modified in the future and eligible for additional pay components. Pay is determined by factors including experience, relevant qualifications, specialty, internal equity, location, and contracts.

Rochester Regional Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, predisposing genetic characteristics, marital or familial status, military or veteran status, citizenship or immigration status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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