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Exercise Physiology Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

Athletic Training, Chiropractic, Exercise Physiology, Exercise Science, Fitness Management, Human Performance, Kinesiology, Nutrition, Physical Education, Physical Therapy, Sports Management, Sports ...

Athletic Training, Chiropractic, Exercise Physiology, Exercise Science, Fitness Management, Human Performance, Kinesiology, Nutrition, Physical Education, Physical Therapy, Sports Management, Sports ...

Exercise Physiology information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$11

$24

$40

How much do exercise physiology jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise physiology in Springfield, MO is $24.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.64 and $28.89 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.

What are popular job titles related to Exercise Physiology jobs in Springfield, MO?

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

What job categories do people searching Exercise Physiology jobs in Springfield, MO look for?

The top searched job categories for Exercise Physiology jobs in Springfield, MO are:

What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Exercise Physiology jobs?

Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Exercise Physiology job openings:

Infographic showing various Exercise Physiology job openings in Springfield, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,286 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Exercise Physiologist - Cardiac Rehab

Springfield, MO • On-site


CoxHealth

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 237 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

532nd of 894 rated healthcare providers

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

Good schedule notice


Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Facility:
Wheeler Heart & Vascular: 3800 S National Ave, Springfield, Missouri, United States of America, 65807
Department:
1369 Cardiac Rehab SGF
Scheduled Weekly Hours:
40
Hours:
0630-1700
Work Shift:
Day Shift (United States of America)
CoxHealth is a leading healthcare system serving 25 counties across southwest Missouri and northern Arkansas. The organization includes six hospitals, 5 ERs, and over 80 clinics. CoxHealth has earned the following honors for workplace excellence:
  • Named one of Modern Healthcare's Best Places to work five times.
  • Named one of America's Greatest Workplaces, Greatest Workplaces in Healthcare (2025, 2026), Greatest Workplaces for Women (2023, 2024), and Greatest Workplaces for Diversity (2024) by Newsweek and Plant-A Insights Group.
  • Acknowledged by Forbes as one of the Best Employers for New Grads.
  • Healthcare Innovation's Top Companies to Work for in Healthcare (2025).
Benefits
  • Medical, Vision, Dental, Retirement with Employer Match and more (20+ hrs/week)
  • For a comprehensive list of benefits, please click here: Benefits | CoxHealth

Job Description:
The Exercise Physiologist II is responsible for the assessment, development and delivery of all phases of care in Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation setting. This position is responsible for development of the individualized treatment plan, exercise prescription and patient education. The Exercise Physiologist II provides expertise and safety for all physical activity and exercise domains with specific focus on therapeutic delivery and intervention in secondary prevention settings. The Exercise Physiologist II participates in the development of high acuity exercise prescriptions for persons with multiple and complex comorbidities. The Exercise Physiologist II participates in Multidisciplinary Rounds and research as assigned by the Manager.Education:
• Required: Master's Degree in Exercise Science or other health related field.
Experience:
• Preferred: EP with 2 years of experience working in a fitness or rehab type field. Comfortable with reading and interpreting telemetry monitoring and 12 lead EKGs.
Skills:
• Experience with recognition and interpretation of 12 lead and exercise ECG.
• Strong communication and people skills and positive attitude
• Self-motivated individual who can work independently with little direct supervision
• Ability to manage multiple assignments and projects at one time and ability to work under pressure
Licensure/Certification/Registration:
• Required: ACSM-CEP or AACVPR CCRP required within one year of hire

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