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Exercise Physiologist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Inova Loudoun Hospital is looking for a dedicated Exercise Physiologist to join the Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehab team. This position is PRN or as needed for intermittent coverage needs, working a ...

Exercise physiologist will also provide education to inpatients discussing cardiovascular risk factors, cardiovascular diagnosis, and benefits to attending the Phase II Cardiopulmonary Rehab Program.

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Exercise Physiologist information

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How much do exercise physiologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise physiologist in Virginia is $28.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.48 and $33.61 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 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 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.

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.

How much does an exercise physiologist make annually?

An exercise physiologist's average annual salary in the United States is around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, certification, and work setting. Salaries can vary based on location, specialization, and whether they work in clinical, fitness, or research environments.

Is being an exercise physiologist a good career?

Exercise physiologists assess 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 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 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 most commonly searched types of Exercise Physiologist jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Exercise Physiologist jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Exercise Physiologist jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Exercise Physiologist job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Exercise Physiologist jobs in VA?

For Exercise Physiologist jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Exercise Physiologist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 57% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,468 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Exercise Physiologist - Cardiopulmonary Rehab at Reynolds Crossing

Virginia Commonwealth University Health Systems

Richmond, VA • On-site

Other

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Depending on the work assignment, the Exercise Physiologist may administer physician-ordered cardiopulmonary exercise assessments including exercise and pharmacologic cardiac stress tests and/or develop and guide exercise treatment plans for patients with chronic diseases primarily including but not limited to cardiovascular, pulmonary, and metabolic disorders.
The Exercise Physiologist recognizes and responds immediately and appropriately to potential emergency situations that may arise, and makes clinical decisions about safety and contraindications of assessment/testing/training procedures.

Licensure, Certification, or Registration Requirements for Hire:
Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)*
*must successfully obtain certification within the first 6 months of employment
Licensure, Certification, or Registration Requirements for continued employment:
Current ACSM Clinical Exercise Physiologist certification
Current CPR (BLS-C)
Current Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification
Experience REQUIRED: N/A
Experience PREFERRED:
Two (2) years or more of experience in exercise testing of clinical cardiopulmonary populations (not athletes or apparently healthy populations) or cardiovascular/pulmonary rehabilitation environment
Education/training REQUIRED:
Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science, Exercise
Physiology or related allied health field
Education/training PREFERRED:
Master's Degree in Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology or related allied health field
Independent action(s) required:
Administers prescribed cardiopulmonary assessments or formulate and carry out rehabilitation prescription; exercises judgement to adjust testing/exercise parameters; and determines when to resume or terminate assessments/exercise based on clinical observations and established protocols.
Supervisory responsibilities (if applicable):
Team member is part of a self-directed team and is responsible to assist in problem solving and ensuring a safe environment for patients.
Problems which cannot be resolved will be taken to the administrative manager for assistance in their resolution.
Additional position requirements: N/A
Age Specific groups served: Pediatric, Adolescence, Geriatric, Adult
Physical Requirements (includes use of assistance devices as appropriate):
Physical - Lifting 50-100 lbs.
Activities: Frequent bending, Walking (distance), Climbing (steps, ladder, other), Reaching (overhead, extensive, repetitive), Repetitive motion Mental/Sensory: Strong recall, Reasoning, Problem solving, Hearing, Speak clearly, Write legibly, Reading, Logical thinking
Emotional: Fast pace environment, Steady pace, Able to handle multiple priorities, Frequent and intense customer interactions, Noisy environment, Able to adapt to frequent change Days

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