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Exercise Psychologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Exercise Psychologist information

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$11K

$92.8K

$398.5K

How much do exercise psychologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for exercise psychologist in the United States is $92,813.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,500.00 and $117,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an exercise psychologist?

Exercise psychologists are professionals who study how physical activity affects mental health and overall well-being. They use psychological principles to help individuals improve their motivation, performance, and adherence to exercise programs. These specialists often work with people recovering from illness or injury, as well as athletes and the general public, to promote healthy lifestyle changes and address psychological barriers to physical activity.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an exercise psychologist?

To thrive as an Exercise Psychologist, you need expertise in psychology, exercise science, and behavioral change, generally supported by a degree in psychology or sports/exercise psychology and relevant licensure or certification. Familiarity with assessment tools, data analysis software, and intervention planning platforms is common in the role. Strong interpersonal skills, motivational abilities, and cultural sensitivity help build rapport and effectively guide clients through behavior modification. These skills ensure evidence-based interventions, foster client engagement, and promote lasting positive changes in physical and mental health.

How does an exercise psychologist collaborate with other healthcare professionals?

Exercise psychologists often work closely with physicians, physical therapists, and dietitians to develop comprehensive wellness plans for patients. They contribute psychological expertise to address barriers such as motivation and adherence to exercise regimens, ensuring interventions are tailored to individual needs. Regular interdisciplinary meetings and shared progress reports are common, fostering a collaborative environment focused on holistic patient care. This teamwork not only enhances patient outcomes but also supports professional growth and learning within the role.

What is the difference between Exercise Psychologist vs Sports Psychologist?

AspectExercise PsychologistSports Psychologist
CredentialsMaster's or Doctorate in Psychology, certification in exercise or health psychologyMaster's or Doctorate in Psychology, specialized sports psychology certification
Work EnvironmentHealthcare settings, fitness centers, rehabilitation clinicsSports teams, athletic organizations, private practice
Industry UsageHealth promotion, rehabilitation, improving exercise adherenceEnhancing athletic performance, mental resilience for athletes

Exercise Psychologists focus on using psychological principles to promote physical activity, improve health, and aid recovery. Sports Psychologists specialize in mental skills training to enhance athletic performance and help athletes cope with competition stress. While both roles require similar credentials, their work environments and client focus differ, with Exercise Psychologists often working in healthcare and fitness settings, and Sports Psychologists working with athletes and sports teams.

What can you do with an exercise psychologist degree?

An exercise psychologist degree prepares individuals to work with clients to improve physical activity, mental health, and overall well-being through behavioral strategies and exercise programs. They often work in clinical, sports, or community settings, utilizing skills in counseling, assessment, and program development, sometimes requiring certification or licensure. This role involves helping clients adopt healthier lifestyles and manage conditions like depression, anxiety, or chronic diseases.

What does an exercise psychologist do?

An exercise psychologist specializes in using physical activity to improve mental health, motivation, and behavior. They assess clients' psychological readiness, develop tailored exercise programs, and often work in clinical or sports settings, requiring knowledge of psychology and exercise science. Certification from relevant professional organizations is typically required.
More about Exercise Psychologist jobs

What cities are hiring for Exercise Psychologist jobs?

Cities with the most Exercise Psychologist job openings:

What states have the most Exercise Psychologist jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Exercise Psychologist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,813 per year, or $44.6 per hour.

Adjunct Instructor for Sport and Exercise Psychology

Springfield College

Springfield, MA โ€ข On-site

$2.8K/wk

Part-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Salary: See Position Description
Location : Springfield, MA
Job Type: Adjunct
Job Number: 00410
Department: Exercise Science
Opening Date: 07/07/2026
Description
Springfield College invites applications for a part-time adjunct faculty position in the Exercise Science Department. This position would support the on-line master's program in Sport and Exercise Psychology.
Compensation for adjunct faculty with fewer than 3 years college teaching experience is $2820 for a 3-credit course
Compensation for adjunct faculty with 3 or more years college teaching experience is $3513 for a 3-credit course.
Responsibilities
Course:
AEXS 673: Evidence Based Practice in Sport & Exercise Psychology (graduate-online)
Date/Time: asynchronous 16-week course, online modality
Course Description: Using the scientist-practitioner perspective, this course introduces the purpose and methods for conducting research in sport and exercise psychology and how research evidence informs and impacts the practice of sport and exercise psychology. Students learn to read, interpret, analyze, and apply findings to the profession. The course introduces a variety of commonly applied quantitative and qualitative research designs and analysis used in the field as well as examining key elements of scientific research design.
This position has been designed as an online modality and will be delivered through Brightspace (D2L) learning management system.
Qualifications
- MS, MEd, or MA Required
- PhD or clinical doctorate preferred in areas related to Sport & Exercise Psychology or related field
- Must reside in one of the following states: MA, CT, WI, DE, TX, VT, FL
Please submit a CV/Resume, cover letter which indicates your interest and relevant expertise/experience for the course below, and a list of 3 references.
This position is not eligible for benefits.