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Exercise Psychologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Exercise Specialist

Irving, NY · On-site

$21.68/hr

... psychology. 5. Monitoring the safety and function of fitness equipment. 6. Conduct/participate in group exercise instruction for all age groups. 7. Be able to provide emergency procedures related to ...

... psychology. 5. Monitoring the safety and function of fitness equipment. 6. Conduct/participate in group exercise instruction for all age groups. 7. Be able to provide emergency procedures related to ...

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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 Jun 16, 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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Exercise Psychologist, and why are they important?

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.

What are exercise psychologists?

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.

How does an exercise psychologist typically collaborate with other healthcare professionals in a clinical setting?

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.
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,813 per year, or $44.6 per hour.
Exercise Specialist ACSM

Part-time

Posted 10 days ago


FirstHealth of the Carolinas rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

330th of 872 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview

Essential Job Functions:The following is a summary of the major essential job functions of this position. The applicant may perform other duties, both major and minor, that are not mentioned below; and specific functions may change due to departmental and patient needs.1. Designs individual exercise prescriptions in consultation with the medical director for cardiac rehab patients in accordance with evidence-based training principles and within limits of medical diagnosis. Updates exercise prescription on a weekly basis based on clinical status and responses to exercise.2. Assist in monitoring the cardiac rehab sessions and maintains records of pertinent information obtained during the session on each patient.3. Assist in monitoring EKG and blood pressure responses in patients during the exercise therapy program.4. Maintains a team approach in working with the medical director, the referring physician, dietitians, exercise psychologists and nurses to deliver a safe and effective plan of care.5. Assist in the maintenance of the Cardiac Rehab department, equipment etc. and exercises proper use of the equipment.6. Provides educational lectures and in-services to staff, members and patients.7. Develops a discharge plan as it relates to progression, intensity, duration and frequency of home exercise program.8. Instructs new patients in the safe use of the exercise and weight equipment and trains all new staff members in the techniques of equipment use.

Qualifications

The following or equivalents are the minimum necessary to perform the essential functions of the positions.

Education /formal training/licenser/certifications/experience: Bachelor's degree in exercise physiology or equivalent in related health field. Master's degree preferred. Certification, experience and training needed for an exercise specialist by the American College of Sports Medicine. Certified in BCLS. Appropriate and acceptable work experience in developing, implementing and updating exercise prescriptions for patients with cardiac disease, respiratory disease and vascular disease. Minimum of two years experience in the field of cardiac and rehab preferred.

This position would be required to currently have or to achieve their ACSM certification within a year.

Employment Type: PART_TIME

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About FirstHealth

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

FirstHealth of the Carolinas is a private, Not for Profit Health care Network Headquartered in Pinehurst, NC. Its 6,100 Employees serve 15 counties in the mid Carolinas. Licensed for four hospitals with 610 beds, FirstHealth demonstrates a commitment to treating the whole patient and providing Quality Health care for the entire Community especially those in need. FirstHealth’s organizational culture is guided by its Core Purpose and Core Values and is committed to Patient Safety, Quality and Performance Excellence.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Pinehurst, NC, US

Year founded

1995