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Exercise Research Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

... exercise sound judgment with confidential and privileged information, manage a varied docket against competing deadlines, and bring strong written, research, and analytical skills to a wide range of ...

... exercise sound judgment with confidential and privileged information, manage a varied docket against competing deadlines, and bring strong written, research, and analytical skills to a wide range of ...

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Exercise Research information

See Iowa salary details

$26.3K

$84.9K

$144.6K

How much do exercise research jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for exercise research in Iowa is $84,928.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,500.00 and $92,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying job in exercise science?

The highest paying jobs in exercise science typically include exercise physiologists, sports medicine physicians, and clinical exercise specialists, especially those with advanced certifications and experience working in healthcare or research settings. These roles often require advanced degrees and specialized skills, and salaries can exceed $70,000 annually depending on location and expertise.

Is it hard to find a job as an exercise physiologist?

Finding a job as an exercise physiologist can be competitive, but opportunities are available in hospitals, clinics, and fitness centers. Certification from the American College of Sports Medicine or the National Strength and Conditioning Association can improve job prospects, and strong communication skills are essential in this field.

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.

How to become a fitness researcher?

To become a fitness 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 roles. Skills in data analysis, research methodology, and familiarity with laboratory equipment or fitness testing tools are important, along with experience conducting scientific studies. Certification in personal training or exercise testing can also enhance job prospects.

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.

Is there a high demand for exercise physiologists?

Exercise physiologists are in growing demand due to increased awareness of preventive healthcare and chronic disease management. Employment is expected to grow faster than average, especially in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and fitness centers, often requiring certification and specialized knowledge of exercise testing and rehabilitation.

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.

What are popular job titles related to Exercise Research jobs in Iowa? For Exercise Research jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Exercise Research job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Part Time. Highlights an 82% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,928 per year, or $40.8 per hour.

Personal Trainer/Exercise Coach

The Exercise Coach - Bettendorf

Bettendorf, IA • On-site

$13 - $17/hr

Part-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

The Exercise Coach® - Bettendorf is seeking a full-time personal trainer. No experience needed as all training, study, and certification will be provided prior to starting. Ideal candidate is people-oriented, enjoys one-on-one conversation and relationships, and is passionate about good health. The right candidate needs to be willing to work some Saturdays.

The Exercise Coach specializes in one-on-one and small-group personal training using innovative, high-tech and proprietary equipment. We specialize in strength for the second half and are the ideal solution for those who are busy, those who don’t like the gym scene, those who are not exercise enthusiasts, or those who are afraid of getting hurt. Our clients achieve the results that matter most to them with no more than two, 20-minute workouts per week.

Company Description

The Exercise Coach® brand was built upon the belief that staying strong and healthy shouldn’t feel like a hassle. We understand that everyone knows they should exercise, and everyone wants to be fit and healthy. But, that is easier said than done given busy schedules, and in some cases somewhat beat up bodies. So, our founder spent years perfecting a workout process that is safe and helps people get the results that matter most to them with just one to three, 20-minute workouts per week. We call our method the Smart 20 Fitness MethodTM. Smart 20TM workouts are coach-led 100% of the time and are powered by our very own proprietary strength and interval technology. Many athletes, physicians and researchers have stated that Smart 20 workouts really are the pinnacle application of exercise science. There is just nothing in the fitness industry that compares to the level of personalization and effectiveness we can provide. Every second of a workout at The Exercise Coach® is adapted to our client’s individual ability, and our client’s programs are completely data-driven. Thousands of people every day enjoy the best possible workout for them at our 40 nationwide studios. Full-time and part-time positions are available. Students and working parents have found our shifts to be very accommodating. We’d love for you to consider joining our team! Check out our web site www.exercisecoach.com.