1

Exercise Research Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Exercise Research information

See Indiana salary details

$26.6K

$86K

$146.5K

How much do exercise research jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for exercise research in Indiana is $86,040.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,500.00 and $93,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What careers can you get with exercise research?

Exercise research can lead to careers such as exercise physiologist, sports scientist, fitness researcher, or clinical research coordinator. These roles often require knowledge of human physiology, data analysis skills, and sometimes certifications like ACSM or NSCA. Employment settings include universities, sports organizations, healthcare facilities, and research institutions.

What is exercise research?

Exercise research is the scientific study of physical activity, its effects on the human body, and how exercise can be used to prevent or treat health conditions. Researchers in this field investigate topics like exercise physiology, biomechanics, sports performance, rehabilitation, and the psychological impacts of physical activity. The goal is to understand how different types, intensities, and frequencies of exercise influence health, fitness, and overall well-being. Exercise research informs guidelines for physical activity and helps develop interventions to improve public health.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an exercise researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Exercise Researcher, you need a strong background in exercise science, physiology, research methodology, and typically a relevant advanced degree such as a master's or PhD. Familiarity with statistical analysis software (e.g., SPSS, R), laboratory equipment, and human performance testing tools is essential. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and strong written and verbal communication skills set outstanding researchers apart. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing rigorous studies, accurately analyzing data, and effectively communicating findings to advance the field.

What are jobs in exercise research?

Jobs in exercise research include exercise physiologists who research the human body and how it responds and adapts to exercise. As an exercise physiologist, you examine the human response to exercise. Your responsibilities involve the study of subjects in controlled lab settings. You develop tests to prove a thesis by recording physical, metabolic, and development information. Other duties can include working in an exercise science department at a research institute or post-secondary school. Keeping up to date on current peer-reviewed exercise science research is a critical part of your job. As a researcher, you travel to various locations to research and test subjects.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in exercise research, and how are they typically addressed?

Professionals in exercise research often encounter challenges such as recruiting a sufficient and diverse participant pool, ensuring compliance with study protocols, and controlling for external variables that may affect outcomes. These challenges are typically addressed through strategic partnerships with local fitness centers or clinics, the use of robust study designs, and careful data management. Collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, including statisticians and clinicians, also helps ensure methodological rigor and the reliability of research findings.

What is the difference between Exercise Research vs Exercise Physiologist?

AspectExercise ResearchExercise Physiologist
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees (Master's/PhD), research certificationsBachelor's or Master's degree in exercise science, certification (e.g., ACSM)
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, healthcare institutionsClinics, hospitals, fitness centers, community health programs
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic, research institutions, government agenciesHealthcare, fitness, rehabilitation facilities
Primary FocusConducting studies, developing exercise protocols, advancing scientific knowledgeDesigning and implementing exercise programs for health and rehabilitation

Exercise Research focuses on scientific studies and developing new exercise protocols, often within academic or research settings. In contrast, Exercise Physiologists apply this knowledge directly to patient care and fitness programs. Both roles require related credentials but serve different purposes within the health and fitness industry.

How do I become an exercise researcher?

To become an exercise researcher, typically a bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field is required, often followed by a master's or doctoral degree for advanced research roles. Skills in data analysis, laboratory techniques, and familiarity with research methodologies are essential, along with experience using tools like statistical software. Gaining practical experience through internships or research assistant positions can also improve job prospects.

How to get into exercise research?

To pursue a career in exercise research, typically a bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field is required, often followed by a master's or doctoral degree for advanced roles. Gaining experience through internships, research assistant positions, and developing skills in data analysis and laboratory techniques can improve job prospects. Familiarity with research methodologies and certifications such as CPR or first aid may also be beneficial.
What are popular job titles related to Exercise Research jobs in Indiana? For Exercise Research jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Exercise Research job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,040 per year, or $41.4 per hour.

Clinical Exercise Physiologist

Indiana University Health

Avon, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Indiana University Health rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 462 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

344th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description


IU Health is looking for team members who are passionate about challenging and significant work for the good of every patient. We are searching for individuals who are compassionate, serve with a purpose, are dedicated to supporting their team, and who seek excellence every day.
Location: West Hospital in Avon
Shift: Full-time, Monday through Friday
Requirements:
  • Master's Degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology or related field is required.
  • Requires 1-2 years of experience in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation.
  • ACSM Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-CEP) and/or AACVPR CCRP credential strongly is preferred.
  • Requires Basic Life Support certification through the AHA.
  • Requires Advanced Cardiac Life Support through the AHA within 6 months of hire.
  • Requires strong ECG interpretation skills and advanced knowledge of exercise physiology in clinical populations.

Roles and Responsibilities:
Designs, implements, and oversees physician-ordered exercise and lifestyle programs for patients with cardiovascular, pulmonary, and other chronic conditions. Provides expert leadership in all phases of cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, ensuring safe, evidence-based care across the continuum. Assesses patient needs and prescribes individualized exercise plans. Instructs and demonstrates safe techniques for individuals and groups. Monitors progress through documented care plans and performance metrics. Educates patients and caregivers on nutrition, risk factors, and behavior change. Collaborates with interdisciplinary teams to align care strategies. Mentors Exercise Science staff and students. Supports research, community outreach, and graded exercise testing. Serves as a clinical leader and educator, advancing best practices in rehabilitation and chronic disease management.
As the most comprehensive medical system in Indiana, IU Health offers many different career opportunities as you grow professionally. IU Health also offers a substantial benefits package, PTO Program, 401k match, and several other programs to meet your needs. These are just a few reasons why applying for your career with IU Health is a good choice. Benefits Designed for You
About Us
  • Indiana University Health has nearly 40,000 team members, including more than 3,600 physicians and 1,200 advanced practice providers, and we're home to the largest nursing network in Indiana with more than 9,000 nursing team members at over 800 sites of care.
  • IU Health is ranked No. 1 in Indiana by U.S. News & World Report, Riley Children's Health is ranked among the top children's hospitals in the country by U.S. News & World Report.
  • A unique partnership with the Indiana University School of Medicine - one of the nation's largest medical schools - gives patients access to groundbreaking research and innovative treatments, and it offers team members access to the latest science and the very best training - advancing healthcare for all.
  • With 15 hospitals, including seven with Magnet designation and eight with Pathways to Excellence designation, our team members are leading the way through excellence.
  • At Indiana University Health, your personal and professional growth is a top priority. You will have access to many diverse opportunities to learn and develop in meaningful ways that matter most to you, such as advanced clinical training, leadership development, promotion opportunities and cross training development.
  • Indiana University Health is invested in the lives of Hoosiers, leading the transformation of healthcare to make Indiana one of the nation's healthiest states.

About the Team
Indiana University Health is Indiana's most comprehensive health system, with 15 hospitals and nearly 40,000 team members serving Hoosiers across the state. We're looking for team members who are inspired by challenging and meaningful work for the good of every patient. People who are compassionate and serve with a purpose. People who aspire to excellence every day.

What Indiana University Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom