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Exercise Science Wellness Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

YMCA Alexandria Wellness Coach

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $21.50/hr

Assistant Wellness Director Job titles directly reporting to this position: None Job titles ... BA/BS is exercise science or related field preferred * CPR/First Aid * AED * YMCA Healthy ...

The position will work closely with members in promoting wellness and helping individuals realize ... Master's degree in exercise science, or a related field from an accredited college or university a ...

Wellness Coach

Warsaw, VA · On-site

$13.75 - $18.75/hr

... years college level exercise science. 5.Must obtain YMCA Healthy Lifestyle Principles and ... Engage YMCA members through coaching on wellness activities. 6.Provides member training ...

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Exercise Science Wellness information

See Virginia salary details

$12

$28

$47

How much do exercise science wellness jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise science wellness in Virginia is $28.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.48 and $33.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs can you get with an exercise science degree that pay well?

With an exercise science degree, high-paying jobs include physical therapist, athletic trainer, and exercise physiologist, often requiring certification or advanced training. These roles typically involve working in healthcare, sports, or fitness settings and may require knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and rehabilitation techniques.

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

AspectExercise Science WellnessPersonal Trainer
CredentialsDegree in Exercise Science or related field, certifications like ACSM or NSCACertification from NASM, ACE, or similar organizations
Work EnvironmentHealthcare settings, wellness programs, research facilitiesGyms, fitness centers, private training
Industry UsageHealth promotion, rehabilitation, researchPersonal fitness coaching, client-specific training

Exercise Science Wellness professionals focus on health promotion, rehabilitation, and research, often requiring degrees and advanced certifications. Personal Trainers primarily work in fitness centers, providing individualized training. While both roles promote physical activity, Exercise Science Wellness has a broader scope including health sciences, whereas Personal Trainers focus on fitness coaching.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Exercise Science Wellness roles, and how can they be effectively addressed?

Professionals in Exercise Science Wellness often encounter challenges such as motivating clients with varying fitness levels, staying updated with evolving evidence-based practices, and balancing administrative duties with hands-on client work. To address these challenges, it's helpful to develop strong communication skills, pursue ongoing professional development, and leverage technology for scheduling and client tracking. Building a supportive network with colleagues can also foster knowledge sharing and provide practical strategies for client engagement and program adherence.

What can you do with an exercise science and wellness degree?

An exercise science and wellness degree prepares individuals for careers such as fitness trainers, personal trainers, health coaches, and wellness coordinators. Graduates can work in gyms, healthcare settings, corporate wellness programs, or pursue certifications in areas like strength training or nutrition to enhance employment opportunities.

What are the highest paying wellness jobs?

In exercise science and wellness, high-paying roles include exercise physiologists, clinical exercise specialists, and wellness directors, often requiring advanced certifications and experience. These positions typically offer higher salaries due to specialized skills, leadership responsibilities, and working in healthcare or corporate wellness settings.

What are Exercise Science Wellness professionals?

Exercise Science Wellness professionals are experts who use scientific principles to improve physical fitness, health, and overall well-being. They design and implement exercise programs, conduct fitness assessments, and educate individuals or groups on healthy lifestyle habits. These professionals often work in settings like gyms, wellness centers, healthcare facilities, or corporate wellness programs. Their goal is to help people prevent illness, recover from injuries, and achieve optimal health through movement and exercise.

What jobs can you do as an exercise scientist?

Exercise scientists can work in roles such as exercise physiologists, sports scientists, fitness trainers, rehabilitation specialists, and research coordinators. They often work in clinical, sports, or wellness settings, utilizing skills in assessment, program design, and health promotion, often requiring certifications like ACSM or NSCA. Job responsibilities include developing exercise programs, conducting fitness assessments, and supporting injury prevention and recovery.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Exercise Science Wellness professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Exercise Science Wellness professional, you need a solid background in human physiology, kinesiology, and health promotion, typically supported by a degree in exercise science or a related field. Familiarity with fitness assessment tools, exercise prescription software, and certifications such as ACSM or NASM is common in the industry. Strong interpersonal skills, motivation techniques, and the ability to educate and inspire clients are valuable soft skills. These competencies are crucial for safely guiding clients toward their wellness goals and ensuring effective, evidence-based interventions.
What are popular job titles related to Exercise Science Wellness jobs in Virginia? For Exercise Science Wellness jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Exercise Science Wellness job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 47% Full Time, 45% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,468 per year, or $28.1 per hour.
YMCA Reston - Wellness Coach

YMCA Reston - Wellness Coach

YMCA of Metropolitan Washington

Reston, VA • On-site

$12.41/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

The YMCA of Metropolitan Washington is one of the largest charities in the DC area. The Y serves as an anchor in the community offering programs and services encompassing youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
Position: Wellness Coach Salary: $12.41 per hour
The YMCA of Metropolitan Washington is a leading nonprofit organization that has a strong commitment to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living and fostering a sense of social responsibility. The Y is a cause driven organization that offers tremendous opportunities to make a difference. We invite you to join us in this amazing work to develop your skills, to realize your leadership potential and discover a career that is so much more than a job.
About the Job
The YMCA Reston Wellness Coach provides fitness programs advice, and assistance to members through proper demonstration and utilization of every piece of fitness equipment, as well as provides each member with an applicable and basic workout program for all machines.
Some of the exciting tasks you will do as a Wellness Coach include but are not limited to:
  • Effectively explains to members, the benefits of working out along with orientating and motivating members to take part in additional wellness services: Equipment Orientation Process, Fitlinxx or Fitness Advisor Process, Fitness Evaluation Process, Personal Training, Group Exercise classes, Wellness socials
  • Identifies potentially dangerous situations and responds proactively whenever possible
  • Provides members with information regarding: YMCA mission, group exercise schedule, branch services.
  • Support our members throughout all stages of their healthy living journey.

Available Shifts:
  • Monday - Friday 5:00pm - 10:00pm plus weekends
Qualifications and Skills:
  • Ideal candidates will possess a high school diploma or GED. BA/BS is exercise science or related field preferred.
  • CPR/First Aid and AED.
  • Must display an outgoing personality, enabling him/her to relate well to members.
  • Must be a team player helping out in other areas as required, incorporating the core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

Working Conditions: Must be able to bend, sit, stand, or pick-up at least 35 pounds
We offer the following benefits: Compensation for this position is competitive and commensurate with experience. The YMCA of Metropolitan Washington provides progressive employee benefits. 10% employer-funded retirement plan with vesting after two years of service; 403(b) savings plan; high quality and affordable healthcare; free YMCA membership for employee, spouse and dependents; paid time off, numerous professional development opportunities, an exciting and collaborative work environment, and the ability to work with creative, talented and diverse individuals!