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Exercise Physiology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Adjunct, Exercise Physiology Time Type: Part time Position Summary and Qualifications: The Department of Health Sciences invites applications for part time adjunct faculty to teach undergraduate ...

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Exercise Physiology information

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$12

$28

$47

How much do exercise physiology jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise physiology in the United States is $28.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $33.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is exercise physiology?

Exercise physiology is the study of how the body responds and adapts to physical activity and exercise. It involves understanding how different systems—such as the cardiovascular, respiratory, and muscular systems—function during movement and training. Exercise physiologists use this knowledge to help people improve fitness, manage chronic diseases, enhance athletic performance, and recover from injuries. They often work in healthcare settings, sports organizations, research, or fitness centers.

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 strong background in human anatomy, physiology, and exercise science, usually supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in exercise physiology or a related field. Familiarity with exercise testing equipment, data analysis software, and, in some cases, certifications such as ACSM-EP are standard requirements. Excellent interpersonal skills, motivational ability, and clear communication are crucial for effectively educating and guiding clients or patients. These skills and qualifications are important to ensure safe, evidence-based interventions and meaningful health outcomes for diverse populations.

What are some of the most common challenges faced by exercise physiologists when designing client programs?

Exercise physiologists often face challenges such as tailoring exercise plans to fit clients with complex medical histories or multiple health conditions, ensuring programs are both safe and effective. Time constraints during assessments and follow-up sessions can also make it difficult to monitor progress and adjust routines. Additionally, motivating clients to adhere to prescribed programs outside of sessions and collaborating with other healthcare professionals to coordinate care are frequent aspects of the role. Overcoming these challenges requires strong communication skills, up-to-date knowledge of best practices, and adaptability in program design.

What is the difference between Exercise Physiology vs Physical Therapy?

AspectExercise PhysiologyPhysical Therapy
CredentialsCertified Exercise Physiologist (CEP), Bachelor's or Master's in Exercise ScienceLicensed Physical Therapist (PT), Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
Work EnvironmentClinics, gyms, sports teams, rehabilitation centersHospitals, outpatient clinics, rehab centers
Industry UsageHealth promotion, sports performance, rehabilitationRehabilitation, injury recovery, pain management

Exercise physiologists focus on improving overall fitness, health, and performance through exercise programs, while physical therapists specialize in rehabilitating injuries and restoring mobility. Both roles require related certifications and often work in healthcare or fitness settings, but their primary goals and patient interactions differ.

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 influence earning potential, and many work in clinical, rehabilitation, or fitness environments.

Is exercise physiology a good career?

Exercise physiology is a growing field focused on applying exercise principles to improve health and performance, often requiring certification and knowledge of human anatomy and physiology. It offers opportunities in clinical, sports, and wellness settings, with job stability increasing as awareness of preventive health expands.

What exactly does an exercise physiologist do?

An exercise physiologist assesses individuals' fitness levels and develops personalized exercise programs to improve health, manage chronic diseases, or enhance athletic performance. They often work in clinical, rehabilitation, or fitness settings and may require certification such as the Certified Exercise Physiologist credential.

What jobs come from exercise physiology?

Exercise physiology graduates can pursue careers such as clinical exercise physiologists, sports scientists, rehabilitation specialists, and fitness trainers. These roles often involve assessing physical fitness, developing exercise programs, and working in healthcare, sports, or wellness settings, sometimes requiring certification or licensure. The field emphasizes knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and exercise techniques to improve health and performance.
More about Exercise Physiology jobs

What cities are hiring for Exercise Physiology jobs?

Cities with the most Exercise Physiology job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Exercise Physiology jobs?

The most popular types of Exercise Physiology jobs are:

What states have the most Exercise Physiology jobs?

States with the most job openings for Exercise Physiology jobs include:

Infographic showing various Exercise Physiology job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,974 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

Exercise Physiology-Entry Level

Albany, OR • On-site

Per diem

Posted 9 days ago


Samaritan Health Services rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 67 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

  • JOB SUMMARY/PURPOSE
    • Participates as a team member to provide comprehensive rehabilitative care to participants who suffer from cardiovascular & pulmonary disease. Responsible for the individual exercise prescriptions and safe effective therapy during exercise classes. Assesses physiologic responses to exercise and intervenes in emergencies. Provides health teaching and promotion.
  • DEPARTMENT DESCRIPTION
    • The Cardiac & Pulmonary Rehab teams at Samaritan Health Services design programs to help people who have been diagnosed with heart issues, asthma, COPD (chronic bronchitis, emphysema), bronchiectasis, fibrotic or interstitial diseases of the lung. Staff creates safe and structured exercise programs and provides education on disease management and self-care.
  • EXPERIENCE/EDUCATION/QUALIFICATIONS
    • BS degree in Exercise Physiology required.
    • Healthcare Provider BLS required upon hire.
    • ACLS required within 90 days of hire.
    • ACSM Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-CEP) preferred.

  • KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES
    • Patient Care - Possess the skills and knowledge needed to assist and care for others. Ability to recognize symptoms, drug properties and interactions, treatments, and preventive health-care measures within scope of practice.
    • Communication - Effective written and oral communication skills to explain complex issues, exchange information between team members, and tactfully discuss issues. Ability to perform group presentations and listen to and understand complex information and ideas.
    • Time Management - Ability to organize, plan and prioritize work to complete within required time frames and to follow-up on pending issues. Ability to perform multiple tasks simultaneously and thrive in dynamic fast-paced environments and under pressure.
    • Conflict resolution - Ability to proactively resolve conflicts in a positive and constructive manner. Possess the knowledge and skills to handle complaints, settle disputes, and negotiate with others to reach mutually beneficial decisions.
    • Social Perceptiveness - Ability to work with a diverse population from pediatrics to geriatrics. Basic understanding of age-related differences in caring for and/or communicating with patients and caregivers. Possess personal sensitivity to the needs and experiences of others and a non-judgmental attitude towards persons of differing standards, values, lifestyles, and ages.
    • Medical Terminology - Knowledge of medical records, procedures and terminology. Ability to read, interpret, and apply policies, procedures, laws, and regulations.
  • PHYSICAL DEMANDS
    • Rarely
      (1 - 10% of the time)

      Occasionally
      (11 - 33% of the time)

      Frequently
      (34 - 66% of the time)

      Continually
      (67 – 100% of the time)

      CLIMB - STAIRS

      LIFT (Floor to Waist: 0"-36") 40 - 60 Lbs

      KNEEL (on knees)

      SQUAT Static (hold >30 sec)

      SIT

      LIFT (Floor to Waist: 0"-36") 20 - 40 Lbs

      CARRY 2-handed, 20 - 40 pounds

      SQUAT Repetitive

      ROTATE TRUNK Sitting

      REACH - Upward

      WALK - LEVEL SURFACE

      LIFT (Floor to Waist: 0"-36") 0 - 20 Lbs

      LIFT (Knee to chest: 24"-54") 0 - 20 Lbs

      LIFT (Waist to Eye: up to 54") 0 - 20 Lbs

      CARRY 1-handed, 0 - 20 pounds

      LIFT (Overhead: 54" and above) 0 - 20 Lbs

      CARRY 2-handed, 0 - 20 pounds

      ROTATE TRUNK Standing

      FINGER DEXTERITY

      MANUAL DEXTERITY Hands/wrists

      PINCH Fingers

      PULL (0-20 pounds force)

      STAND

      BEND FORWARD at waist

      REACH - Forward

      GRASP Hand/Fist

      PUSH (0-20 pounds force)

      PUSH (20-40 pounds force)

      PUSH (40-60 pounds force)

      PUSH (60 or more pounds force)


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