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Exercise Physiologist Jobs in Columbus, IN (NOW HIRING)

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Exercise Physiologist information

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$12

$26

$44

How much do exercise physiologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise physiologist in Columbus, IN is $26.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $31.54 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.
More about Exercise Physiologist jobs

What cities near Columbus, IN are hiring for Exercise Physiologist jobs?

Cities near Columbus, IN with the most Exercise Physiologist job openings:

Exercise Physiologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Exercise Physiologist job openings in Columbus, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,909 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

HHAL SE

Young Men's Christian Association of Monroe County, Inc.

Bloomington, IN • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

 

POSITION SUMMARY:

Is responsible for performing and being familiar with exercise, clerical, participant care and education, public and physician relations, and any other aspects of Healthy Hearts & Active Lives programming.  Supervised and  directed by the Healthy Hearts & Active Lives Director or other superior HHAL staff member. MUST be available Monday through Friday 8am to 11am. 

 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS:

  1. Level of knowledge: Basic knowledge of exercise leadership and being able to follow and eventually lead group exercises.  Knowledge of heart and exercise physiology necessary and may be learned on the job.  During orientation phase, MUST complete CPR, New Staff, BBP, and Daily duties check-off list.

 

  1. Minimum Work Experience: Participant contact experience highly desirable, but not required.  If not member with health care team, self-motivation is essential for familiarization of participant situations.

 

  1. Interpersonal Skills: Highly motivated individuals with interpersonal skills necessary to relate positively with cardiopulmonary participants, their families, physicians, and ancillary staff.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:  

Serving the member is our first priority, the purpose of our work, and the key to our success!

  1. Participant Care and Education – Assists with monitoring of participant’s vital signs and EKG; participant orientation and education skills as apply to each participant’s needs and medical history; emergency medical skills as required in a code situation, notify director in case of changes.
  1. Clerical – Maintenance of supplies and equipment, recording of participant information on exercise chart; progress noting on participants.
  1. Public and Physician Relations – Acts as representative and liaison to community and physicians in reference to Rehab, education, and participant well-being.
  1. Administrative – Involved in long/short term goals for program, recommendations for changes or additions to program and program equipment, quality assurance.
  1. Class Leadership – Begin class ON TIME.  Follow an exercise prescription (warm-up, balance, flexibility, resistance and cool-down) and lead a series of exercises suitable for this population.  Be able to modify exercises for those with special needs.  Motivate participants to exercise at suitable aerobic exercise level.   Be available for needs of participants during class time.  

PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS:

  1. Must be able to move quickly in case of emergency.
  2. Must be able to move up and down to and from the floor to provide CPR and other emergency care.

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