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Exercise Rehabilitation Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The instructor works closely with the hospital's wellness team to contribute to the overall health ... rehabilitation goals. -Ensure all exercise routines are safe and effective and follow best ...

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Exercise Rehabilitation Instructor information

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How much do exercise rehabilitation instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise rehabilitation instructor in the United States is $23.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Exercise Rehabilitation Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Exercise Rehabilitation Instructor, you need a background in exercise science, anatomy, and rehabilitation techniques, often supported by a relevant degree and industry certifications like ACSM or NSCA. Familiarity with assessment tools, exercise prescription software, and monitoring equipment is typically required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, motivational ability, and clear communication help build trust and ensure client adherence to rehabilitation plans. These skills are crucial for safely guiding clients through recovery, optimizing outcomes, and fostering long-term health improvements.

What is the highest paying job in the fitness industry?

In the fitness industry, high-paying roles include fitness directors, personal training managers, and sports performance coaches, often requiring advanced certifications and extensive experience. Executive-level positions in fitness organizations or owning a successful fitness business can also offer top salaries. These roles typically involve leadership, specialized skills, and a strong professional reputation.

How to become a rehabilitation trainer?

To become an exercise rehabilitation instructor, typically one needs a relevant bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field, along with certification such as the Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) or Certified Exercise Physiologist (EP-C). Gaining practical experience through internships or supervised work is important, and additional certifications in rehabilitation or specific populations can enhance job prospects. Strong communication skills and knowledge of anatomy, injury prevention, and rehabilitation techniques are essential for success in this role.

What are Exercise Rehabilitation Instructors?

Exercise Rehabilitation Instructors are professionals who design and guide exercise programs to help individuals recover from injuries, surgeries, or manage chronic health conditions. They work closely with clients to restore function, improve mobility, and enhance overall physical well-being through safe, tailored exercise routines. These instructors often collaborate with physiotherapists, doctors, and other healthcare professionals to ensure clients achieve optimal recovery and long-term health benefits. Their role is essential in bridging the gap between clinical treatment and returning to regular activity or sport.

What is the highest paying job in exercise science?

In exercise science, sports medicine physicians and orthopedic surgeons typically earn the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures annually. Advanced roles such as exercise physiologists with specialized certifications or those working in clinical or research settings can also command high pay, especially with extensive experience and advanced degrees.

What is an exercise rehabilitation instructor?

An exercise rehabilitation instructor is a fitness professional who designs and supervises exercise programs to help individuals recover from injuries, surgeries, or manage chronic conditions. They often work in clinical or fitness settings, utilizing knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and rehabilitation techniques, and may hold certifications such as CPR and specialized rehabilitation credentials.

What is the difference between Exercise Rehabilitation Instructor vs Physical Therapist?

AspectExercise Rehabilitation InstructorPhysical Therapist
CredentialsCertification in exercise rehab, CPR, and first aidDoctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) license, state licensure
Work EnvironmentGyms, fitness centers, outpatient clinicsHospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers
Employer & IndustryFitness and wellness industry, outpatient rehabHealthcare industry, medical settings
Primary FocusDesigning and guiding exercise programs for rehabDiagnosing and treating physical impairments

Exercise Rehabilitation Instructors focus on guiding clients through exercise programs to aid recovery, often working in fitness or outpatient settings. Physical Therapists have a broader scope, including diagnosing and treating a variety of physical conditions in medical environments. While both roles involve rehabilitation exercises, Physical Therapists hold advanced clinical credentials and provide comprehensive care.

What are some common challenges faced by Exercise Rehabilitation Instructors when working with clients recovering from injury or surgery?

Exercise Rehabilitation Instructors often encounter challenges such as adapting exercise plans to individual client needs, ensuring exercises are performed safely, and motivating clients who may be experiencing pain or frustration. Communication and collaboration with physiotherapists, physicians, and other healthcare professionals are essential to coordinate care and monitor progress. Instructors must also stay updated on best practices and evidence-based protocols to provide the most effective rehabilitation support.
More about Exercise Rehabilitation Instructor jobs
What states have the most Exercise Rehabilitation Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for Exercise Rehabilitation Instructor jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Exercise Rehabilitation Instructor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Exercise Rehabilitation Instructor jobs are:
Student - Exercise and Rehabilitation Instructor for Healthy Aging Clinic

Student - Exercise and Rehabilitation Instructor for Healthy Aging Clinic

Northwestern Health Sciences University

Bloomington, MN • On-site

Other

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

*If you are a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen, please ensure you have completed the 2025-2026 FAFSA prior to submitting your application. If you need assistance or have questions, please contact the Financial Aid Office at finaid@nwhealth.edu.

Hours: Approximately 5-10 hours per week

Join an integrative care team and provide evidence-based, preventive health-oriented instruction for exercise and rehabilitation. Individual and group instruction will be delivered within a healthy aging clinic at Northwestern Health Sciences University in Bloomington, MN. Clients will be age 50+, community dwelling and ambulatory. The goals of the clinic are to equip older adults with support to thrive, develop resilience, and live vibrantly and fully at any age.

Exercise and rehabilitation will center around three services:

  1. Rehabilitation to address specific physical or musculoskeletal needs (individual)
  2. Physical activity for strength and agility with age (group)
  3. Falls prevention (group)

Duties:

  • Developing and delivering individualized exercise and rehabilitation instruction.
  • Maintaining clinical records and coordinating care plans with other practitioners as needed.
  • Delivering group exercise instruction; marketing and clinic promotion.

There is also opportunity to contribute to the design of group exercise programming. Care will be coordinated with a multi-disciplinary team of providers, all sharing the goal of delivering individualized care, oriented around goals of the person. Prevention and lifestyle medicine will be emphasized within all care delivery.

Requirements:

  • Credentials:
    • Degree in exercise science, athletic training, occupational health, or similar preferred.
    • NSCA or CSCS certification preferred.
  • Prior experience working with older adults valued

Equal Opportunity Employer

Northwestern Health Sciences University is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive environment that values the diversity of its employees and does not discriminate against any employee or candidate. Further, NWHSU prohibits all forms of discrimination is any education program or activity that it operates. The Notice of Non-Discrimination is located on our website. Individuals may report concerns or questions to the Title IX Coordinator. Please refer to our website for further information.