ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Exercise Physiology Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsExercise Physiology JobsExercise Physiology Jobs in Virginia

Exercise Physiology information

See Virginia salary details

$12

$28

$47

How much do exercise physiology jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise physiology 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 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.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Exercise Physiology jobs in Virginia?

For Exercise Physiology jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Exercise Physiology jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Exercise Physiology jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Exercise Physiology jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Exercise Physiology job openings:

Exercise Physiology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Exercise Physiology job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,468 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Exercise Physiologist - Cardiopulmonary Rehab at Reynolds Crossing - PRN

VCU Health

Richmond, VA • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

VCU Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 171 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

306th of 891 rated healthcare providers

Job description

-- Seeking experienced exercise physiologist to join our team! Master's degree in Exercise Physiology strongly preferred --
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
EEO Employer/Disabled/Protected Veteran

What VCU Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply