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Exercise Physiologist Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

The Group Exercise Instructor intentionally fosters a cause-centered culture that is welcoming, genuine, hopeful, nurturing and determined while ensuring quality wellness programming services that ...

Personal Trainer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Personal Trainer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Group Exercise Instructor

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$15/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We encourage everyone to Exercise Daily , not just for fitness, but as a lifestyle that promotes resilience and long-term wellness. For Our Team: We offer dynamic roles in fitness, customer service ...

Showing results 21-40

Exercise Physiologist information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$26

$44

How much do exercise physiologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 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.

How much does an exercise physiologist make annually?

An exercise physiologist typically earns an average annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and work setting. Certification and specialized skills can also influence earning potential.

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.

Is being an exercise physiologist a good career?

Exercise physiologists analyze and develop exercise programs to improve health and manage chronic conditions. The profession offers opportunities in healthcare, rehabilitation, and fitness settings, often requiring certification and strong interpersonal skills. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in health promotion and patient care.

What jobs can you do with exercise physiology?

Exercise physiologists can work in clinical settings, rehabilitation centers, sports teams, fitness facilities, and research institutions. They design and implement exercise programs to improve health, assist in injury recovery, and enhance athletic performance, often requiring certification and knowledge of human anatomy and physiology.

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 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 physiology and exercise science.

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 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:

Infographic showing various Exercise Physiologist job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,392 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Group Exercise Instructor

Family YMCA of Black Hawk

Waterloo, IA • On-site

$13.25/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • Employee discounts
  • Training & development
  • Wellness resources

 
POSITION SUMMARY:
This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The Group Exercise Instructor intentionally fosters a cause-centered culture that is welcoming, genuine, hopeful, nurturing and determined while ensuring quality wellness programming services that support membership connection and drive for wellness. Inclusion is the KEY to our group exercise programming. This position should have experience with working with seniors and teaching aquatics.
OUR CULTURE:
Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
 
  • Excellent customer service and listen-first skills
  • Ability to maintain a high level of personal fitness and motivation for wellness
  • Able to lead a group in exercise with rhythm, encouragement, positivity and with poise
  • Modifications offered for all levels of fitness through proper strength, flexibility and core
  • Achieve community credibility by upholding high personal standards for fitness and programming, and exemplary communication with community members regarding YMCA programming
QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Within 30 days: CPR/AED Certification, Bloodborne Pathogen Training
  • Possibility for training in any certification necessary for instructing and leading specific group exercise classes
  • Preferred: Group Exercise Certification/ National Accredited Personal Training Certification
  • Preferred: Experience teaching older adult fitness classes and aquatics.
  • Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of the community