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Exercise Science Internship Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Exercise Science Internship information

See Kentucky salary details

$11

$24

$41

How much do exercise science internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise science internship in Kentucky is $24.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.93 and $29.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an exercise science internship?

An Exercise Science Internship is a supervised practical experience where students or recent graduates in exercise science gain hands-on training in real-world settings. These internships typically take place in fitness centers, rehabilitation clinics, sports teams, or health organizations, allowing interns to apply classroom knowledge to practical situations. Interns may assist with exercise testing, develop fitness programs, observe professionals, and interact with clients or athletes. The goal is to develop professional skills, build a network, and gain valuable experience that can help secure future employment in the exercise science field.

What is the difference between Exercise Science Internship vs Personal Trainer?

AspectExercise Science InternshipPersonal Trainer
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or holding a degree in exercise science or related fieldCertification from organizations like NASM, ACE, or ACSM often required
Work EnvironmentEducational settings, research labs, or fitness facilities for training and observationOne-on-one client sessions in gyms, fitness centers, or private settings
Industry UsageInternship programs for students or recent grads to gain experienceProfessionally certified individuals providing fitness training services

Exercise Science Internships focus on gaining practical experience in exercise physiology and research, often for students or recent graduates. Personal Trainers are certified professionals who design and implement fitness programs for clients. While both roles are related to fitness and health, internships are educational opportunities, whereas personal training involves direct client interaction and certification.

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

To thrive as an Exercise Science Intern, you need a solid understanding of exercise physiology, anatomy, and assessment techniques, typically gained through coursework in an exercise science or related degree program. Familiarity with fitness assessment tools, exercise equipment, and data collection systems is often required. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability are important soft skills for collaborating with clients and professionals in diverse settings. These skills ensure effective client support, accurate data handling, and a positive learning experience in real-world fitness environments.

What types of hands-on experiences can I expect during an exercise science internship, and how do they contribute to my professional development?

During an Exercise Science Internship, you can expect to engage in a variety of hands-on activities such as assisting with fitness assessments, developing and supervising exercise programs, and observing or leading group training sessions. These practical experiences not only help you apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings, but also allow you to build essential skills in client interaction, program design, and data collection. Collaborating with certified professionals and athletes will also give you valuable insights into different career paths within the field. This immersive exposure is crucial for building confidence and competence as you transition into a full-time role after graduation.

What are the most commonly searched types of Exercise Science jobs in Kentucky?

The most popular types of Exercise Science jobs in Kentucky are:

What job categories do people searching Exercise Science Internship jobs in Kentucky look for?

The top searched job categories for Exercise Science Internship jobs in Kentucky are:

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Exercise Science Internship jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Exercise Science Internship job openings:

Infographic showing various Exercise Science Internship job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,221 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Assistant Professor of Health and Exercise Science

Transylvania University

Lexington, KY • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Assistant Professor of Health and Exercise Science

Transylvania University (www.transy.edu) invites applications for a 9-month, tenure-track position in Health and Exercise Science, beginning August 25, 2027. With a foundation in the liberal arts, Transylvania’s health and exercise science program offers a dynamic curriculum focused on scientific approaches to human health. Faculty expertise in physiology, nutrition, biomechanics and public health allows students to examine a variety of topics relevant to exercise and wellness. The health and exercise science program allows students the opportunity to apply concepts learned in class to practical experiences through off-campus internships around Lexington, Kentucky.

Why Join Transylvania University?

Founded in 1780, Transylvania University is one of the nation’s oldest institutions. Ranked in the Top 100 Best Liberal Arts colleges for 2025 by Niche, we’re a vibrant campus in the heart of Lexington, Kentucky full of curious minds, creative energy, and people who genuinely love what they do. We are mentors and community builders who help shape the next generation of thinkers, creators and leaders. We cultivate independent thinking, open-mindedness, creative expression and commitment to lifelong learning and social responsibility in a diverse world. With approximately 1,000 students, Transylvania is a student-centered institution with small class sizes. We offer additional opportunities for travel and team-taught courses, and a focus on experiential learning.

Who are we looking for?

Eligible candidates will have a Ph.D. in kinesiology, exercise science, nutrition, public health or a related field by the start date. The successful candidate will have expertise in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field as well as experience (teaching or research) in nutrition, sports nutrition, and/or dietetics. Undergraduate teaching experience is preferred. The successful candidate will have a commitment to teaching, value interdisciplinary dialogue, and work collaboratively with other faculty. The teaching load consists of three courses per term, plus one short-term course in May term (3-3-1). Responsibilities include:

  • Teach courses related to human nutrition, as well as topics within their area of specialty (preferably kinesiology/exercise science or public health).
  • Contributions to teaching core classes such as Introduction to Exercise Science and Senior Seminar are expected, along with occasional supervision of community internships and independent research. Additionally, contribute to the general education program by teaching the Health and Wellness course.
  • Occasional contributions to First-Year programing and service as an academic adviser.
  • Other responsibilities include academic scholarship/professional activity, preferably involving undergraduate students, and service to the university through various committee appointments. 

How do you apply?

Qualified candidates should submit a single PDF including:

  • a cover letter
  • curriculum vitae
  • statement of teaching philosophy highlighting the candidate's core teaching methods
  • statement of research philosophy explaining how the candidate's current or future research would be feasible in a small liberal arts setting
  • unofficial graduate transcripts
  • list of at least three professional references

The successful candidate will be asked to provide official graduate transcripts and be subject to a background check. Send questions specific to this search to Dr. JJ Wallace, search committee chair, at jwallace@transy.edu. 

Transylvania University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to enhancing the diversity of the university community. In support of this goal, we embrace diversity and encourage applications from qualified candidates with a wide range of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. 

Employment Type: FULL_TIME