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Exercise Physiologist Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

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Exercise Physiologist information

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$13

$29

$49

How much do exercise physiologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise physiologist in Riverside, CA is $29.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.59 and $35.38 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Exercise Physiologist jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Exercise Physiologist jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Exercise Physiologist jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Exercise Physiologist job openings:
Infographic showing various Exercise Physiologist job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% As Needed, 59% Full Time, and 34% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,526 per year, or $29.6 per hour.
Exercise Physiologist

Other

Posted 2 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Perform patient assessments, treatment, and education during cardiovascular and pulmonary exercise monitoring and rehabilitation procedures.

  • Develop and implement age-specific and evidence-based pulmonary patient care treatment plans and therapies.

  • Participate in educational activities, departmental committees, research projects, community outreach, and other health-related projects as assigned.


Loma Linda University Health rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

109th of 1,004 rated hospitals


Job description

MH: Cardiac Pulmonary Rehab- (Unscheduled, Days ) - 

Job Summary: The Exercise Physiologist functions within the scope of practice to perform patient assessments, treatment and education to patients and families during dynamic cardiovascular and pulmonary exercise monitoring, pulmonary patient care management and procedures for patients referred to or enrolled in Cardiac, Cardiopulmonary or Pulmonary Rehabilitation. Utilizes discretion and independent judgment in the development of and application of age-specific and developmentally appropriate evidenced-based pulmonary patient care treatment plans and therapies. Participates in educational activities, departmental committees, research projects, community outreach and other health related projects as assigned. Applies theoretical concepts to clinical practice and continually expands cardiovascular and pulmonary knowledge base and clinical skills. Serves as a role model and provides positive influence to facilitate change. Contributes to a work environment of caring and cooperation between a culturally diverse workforce and patient populations. Performs other duties as needed.
Education and Experience: Associate's Degree from a school approved by the Respiratory Care Board of the State of California required or Master's Degree in Exercise Physiology or Kinesiology required. One year of experience in pulmonary chronic disease or cardiopulmonary chronic disease patients preferred. One year experience with patient education, counseling and group facilitation preferred.
Knowledge and Skills: Ability to provide services for inpatient and outpatient cardiovascular and/or pulmonary rehabilitation as assigned. Provides direct patient care including initial patient assessment, development and adjustment of progression of activity and/or exercise prescriptions and plan of care, implementation of individualized and group education sessions and supervision of exercise classes at hospital sites of service. Must have knowledge in cardiac rehabilitation phase I, II and III. Demonstrate advanced knowledge in exercise physiology, cardiovascular pathophysiology and cardiovascular disease testing and treatments. Strong skillset in ECG and arrhythmia recognition. Able to read; write and speak with professional quality; use computer and software programs necessary to the position, e.g., Word, Excel, Power Point, organization-wide electronic medical record; operate &/or troubleshoot basic office equipment required for position. Able to relate and communicate positively, effectively, and professionally with others; provide leadership; be assertive and consistent in enforcing policies; work calmly and respond courteously when under pressure; lead, supervise, teach, and collaborate; except direction. Able to communicate effectively in English (and in Spanish preferred) in person, in writing, and on the telephone; think critically; work independently; perform basic math & statistical functions; manage multiple assignments; compose written materials; work well under pressure; problem solve; organize and prioritize workload; recall information with accuracy; pay close attention to detail. Able to distinguishes colors; hear sufficiently for general conservation in person and on telephone; identify and distinguish various sounds associated with the workplace; read documents necessary to the position.
Licensures and Certifications: Active Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP) license in State of California required for RCP or National Licensure as a ACSM-Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-CEP) by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) required within one year of hire date. Certified Cardiac Rehabilitation Professional (CCRP) by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR) preferred. Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association required. Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) Certification from the American Heart Association required within three months of hire.

Our mission is to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ. Our core values are compassion, excellence, humility, integrity, justice, teamwork and wholeness.
Loma Linda University Health is a Seventh-day Adventist, faith and values based Christian institution. Candidates must understand and embrace the mission, purpose, and identity of Loma Linda and its affiliated entities.

We are an equal opportunity employer committed to the principles of diversity. We provide equal opportunities in all aspects of the employment process to every individual, regardless of gender, race, color, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, marital or veteran status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by law. In addition, we will provide reasonable accommodations for otherwise qualified individuals requesting an accommodation due to a disability. If you need accommodation assistance with accessing our job listings or completing an application, or during any other phase of employment with us, please contact Human Resources Management at (909) 651-4001.

Loma Linda University Medical Center Murrieta is a religiously-qualified Equal Opportunity Employer under Title VII of Civil Rights Act of 1964. No question on this application is asked for the purpose of unlawfully limiting or excluding any applicant's consideration for employment because of race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable law. If you need a reasonable accommodation in the hiring process, please notify Human Resource Management.

We appreciate your interest in Loma Linda and wish you success in your job search!

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About Loma Linda University Health

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Loma Linda University Health (LLUH) is an esteemed healthcare organization situated in Loma Linda, California, US. Established in 1905, it was initially known as the College of Medical Evangelists, and it operated as the official medical institution of the Seventh-day Adventist Church until the name was changed to LLUH in 1961. LLUH is very much active in the healthcare and education sectors, providing a vast range of services such as medical treatment, research, and health education. The organization’s core mission is "to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ", which underlines its binding values of compassion, integrity, excellence, freedom, and justice.

Industry

Health care and social assistance and hospitality services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Loma Linda, CA, US