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Exercise Physiology Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

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Exercise Physiology information

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How much do exercise physiology jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise physiology in Raleigh, NC is $27.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.10 and $32.93 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 Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of Exercise Physiology jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Exercise Physiology jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Exercise Physiology job openings:

Infographic showing various Exercise Physiology job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,325 per year, or $27.6 per hour.

Exercise Physiologist - Cardiopulmonary Rehab - PRN

Dukehealth.org

Durham, NC • On-site

Other

Re-posted 17 hours ago


Job description

At Duke Health, we're driven by a commitment to compassionate care that changes the lives of patients, their loved ones, and the greater community. No matter where your talents lie, join us and discover how we can advance health together.
About Duke University Hospital
Pursue your passion for caring with Duke University Hospital in Durham, North Carolina, which is consistently ranked among the best in the United States. The largest of Duke Health's four hospitals with 1062 patient beds, it features comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic facilities, including a regional emergency/trauma center, an endo-surgery center, and more.
Job Duties:
Meet the knowledge and skillset outlined in the core competencies for Cardiac Rehabilitation professionals guidelines based on AACVPR's guidelines.This includes, but is not limited to, patient assessment, nutritional/physical activity counseling, education on smoking cessation, and management of the following: diabetes, blood pressure, weight, lipids.Candidate will need to also be able to provide psychosocial support to patients, as they are dealing with life-changing events.Candidate should have knowledge of exercise parameters for patients with heart disease.
Key Responsibilities:
• Monitor vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, symptoms, and blood glucose levels, ensuring accurate documentation within Epic, Duke's electronic medical records system.
• Formulate personalized exercise prescriptions tailored to clients with diverse health histories and varied goals.
• Deliver expert instruction in group exercise classes
• Offer individualized personal treatment plans to a diverse client base, accommodating a range of health histories and objectives.
• Maintain regular communication with patients and interdisciplinary team
Work Performed:
Ensure a secure exercise environment for clients, monitoring vital signs and collaboratively communicating care plans with the complete healthcare team. Spearhead the planning, coordination, and implementation of exercise and related programs tailored to diverse special populations, clinical programs, and healthy demographics. Undertake the responsibility of creating personalized exercise prescriptions, setting goals, and orchestrating exercise progression for patients at varying risk levels-low, medium, and high. Conduct comprehensive fitness assessments for clients spanning a spectrum of health abilities. Function as an integral team player, contributing to optimal client care and fostering mutual support within the team.
Required Qualifications at this Level
Education
Master's degree in Exercise Physiology or Exercise Science. Bachelor's degree plus ACSM RCEP credential accepted
Experience
Level I: Minimum 1 yrs applicable experience, prefer 2
Level II: Minimum 3 yrs applicable experience (leadership experience preferred).
Degrees, Licensure, and/or Certification
Level I: ACSM Clinical Certification as Exercise Physiologist or Clinical Exercise Physiologist
Level II: ACSM Clinical Certification as Clinical Exercise Physiologist
Duke is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions), sexual orientation or military status.
Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas-an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.
Essential Physical Job Functions:
Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essential job functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.