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Exercise Physiology Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Graduate of an accredited master's degree Clinical Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology, Exercise Science or related field * Satisfactory completion of clinical work as required by the university ...

Master's Degree in clinical Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology, Exercise Science or related field with emphasis in cardiac rehabilitation Required Work Experience * Three (3) month internship in a ...

Bachelor's degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology or related field is required. Masters Degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology or related field is preferred. TRAINING DESCRIPTION: Participation in ...

Master's Degree in clinical Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology, Exercise Science or related field with emphasis in cardiac rehabilitation Required Work Experience * Three (3) month internship in a ...

Master's Degree in clinical Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology, Exercise Science or related field with emphasis in cardiac rehabilitation Required Work Experience * Three (3) month internship in a ...

Serves as a hospital consultant in area of exercise physiology. Participates in appropriate professional organizations for personal development. * Assists in monitoring outpatient cardiac ...

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Exercise Physiology information

See Wisconsin salary details

$13

$28

$48

How much do exercise physiology jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise physiology in Wisconsin is $28.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.87 and $34.23 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 Wisconsin?

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

What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Exercise Physiology jobs?

Cities in Wisconsin with the most Exercise Physiology job openings:

Infographic showing various Exercise Physiology job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,526 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

Exercise Physiologist

UnityPoint Health

Madison, WI • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


UnityPoint Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 361 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

268th of 891 rated healthcare providers


Job description

16356BR

FTE: 0.5

Shift: Days/weekends/call/holiday

Compensation: 26.34+

Hours Per Week: 20-28

Weekends: Some

Benefit Eligible

Clinical Exercise Physiologist

The UnityPoint – Meriter Clinical Exercise Physiologist is responsible for performing diagnostic cardiac procedures/tests by use of electrocardiogram, application of Holter/event or ambulatory monitor and conducting diagnostic stress testing. The UnityPoint – Meriter Clinical Exercise Physiologist must be able to apply the scientific principles of exercise training in dealing with clientele and provide direct oversight and leadership to promote the safety of all patients during the delivery of care in the ECG department.

At UnityPoint Health, you matter. We’re proud to be recognized as a Top Place to Work in Healthcare by Becker's Healthcare several years in a row for our commitment to our team members.

Our competitive Total Rewards program offers benefits options focused on your needs and priorities, no matter what life stage you’re in. Here are just a few:    

  • Expect paid time off, parental leave, 401K matching and an employee recognition program.

  • Dental, health and vision insurance, paid holidays, short and long-term disability and more. We even offer pet insurance for your four-legged family members.

  • Tuition reimbursement to help further your career and adoption assistance to help you grow your family.

With a collective goal to champion a culture of belonging where everyone feels valued and respected, we honor the ways people are unique and embrace what brings us together.  

And we believe equipping you with support and development opportunities is a vital part of delivering an exceptional employment experience.

UnityPoint Health - Meriter and UW Health work closely together to deliver exceptional healthcare services to our community.

Join our team of experts and make a difference with UnityPoint Health.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Graduate of an accredited master’s degree Clinical Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology, Exercise Science or related field

  • Satisfactory completion of clinical work as required by the university attended.

  • 3-6 months of outpatient or inpatient clinical exercise programs which indicates successful ability to assume responsibilities within a team context.

  • Cardiovascular assessment and ECG interpretation

  • Practicum experience involving stress testing and exercise counseling.

  • Valid ACSM-Clinical Exercise Physiologist or Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist (or completed within 12 months of hire)

  • Valid driver’s license

  • Current BLS and ACLS (or completed within 6-12 months of hire)

  • Proficient independent critical thinking and clinical decision making based on client’s presentation and physical status

  • Recognizes contraindications to exercise and abnormal patient responses to exercise

  • Strong understanding of cardiac pathophysiology, exercise physiology, ECG interpretation, arrhythmias, and medications

  • Common sense and practical reasoning

  • Basic problem-solving abilities.

  • Strong oral and written communication skills

  • Effective listening skills

  • Ability to pay attention to details, often changing from one task to another without loss of efficiency or composure

  • Requires critical thinking skills, decisive judgement, and the ability to work with minimal supervision

  • Ability to maintain composure under stressful working conditions

  • First responder to medical emergencies in a setting where high risk patients are served

  • Maintain high quality and productivity in a fast paced and changing health care environment.

    PREFERRED:

  • One or more years of experience in field of exercise physiology.

  • Basic computer skills including proficiency with keyboarding

  • Experience with computerized documentation systems

  • Behavior change counseling and motivational strategies

  • Active participation in a professional organization


What UnityPoint Health employees say

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About UnityPoint Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At UnityPoint Health, we provide care in nine regions throughout Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin. As the nation's fourth largest nondenominational health system in America, UnityPoint Health keeps people at the center of all we do. We are looking for dynamic and talented individuals to join our team. You'll find opportunities for every sized dream.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

West Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1995