1

Exercise Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Canterbury Court is seeking an Exercise Specialist to join our team. This Full-Time/Part-Time position is in the Wellness division of our Life Plan Community (LPC). We invite you to experience ...

Exercise Specialist

Cupertino, CA ยท On-site

$38 - $46/hr

The Exercise Specialist works in direct partnership with the primary care team to help patients work towards their health and wellness goals. The Exercise Specialist conducts advanced health fitness ...

The Exercise Specialist works in direct partnership with the primary care team to help patients work towards their health and wellness goals. The Exercise Specialist conducts advanced health fitness ...

As an Exercise Specialist at MercyOne Genesis, you will provide care by offering a variety of exercises and education to improve the patient'sfunctional capacity and psychosocial status in ...

Kansas Medical Center (KMC) is expanding its Cardiac Rehab Program. We are adding an Exercise Specialist to the team. Our team provides care and support to our patients in an outpatient setting ...

Exercise Specialist

Portland, OR ยท On-site

$35 - $40/hr

As an Exercise Specialist with Touchmark, you will enrich lives each day by assisting, monitoring, and instructing residents in the safe and effective use of equipment and weight machines in order to ...

Basic Cardiac Life Support by AHA Advanced cardiac Life Support by AHA Working towards ACSM Exercise Specialist Certification LICENSURE Basic Cardiac Life Support by AHA Advanced cardiac Life Support ...

As an Exercise Specialist at MercyOne Genesis, you will provide care by offering a variety of exercises and education to improve the patient'sfunctional capacity and psychosocial status in ...

As an Exercise Specialist at MercyOne Genesis, you will provide care by offering a variety of exercises and education to improve the patient'sfunctional capacity and psychosocial status in ...

As an Exercise Specialist at MercyOne Genesis, you will provide care by offering a variety of exercises and education to improve the patient'sfunctional capacity and psychosocial status in ...

Exercise Specialist

Silvis, IL ยท On-site

$21.79 - $32.68/hr

As an Exercise Specialist at MercyOne Genesis, you will provide care by offering a variety of exercises and education to improve the patient's functional capacity and psychosocial status in ...

Exercise Specialist

Silvis, IL ยท On-site

$21.79 - $32.68/hr

As an Exercise Specialist at MercyOne Genesis, you will provide care by offering a variety of exercises and education to improve the patient's functional capacity and psychosocial status in ...

As an Exercise Specialist at MercyOne Genesis, you will provide care by offering a variety of exercises and education to improve the patient'sfunctional capacity and psychosocial status in ...

As an Exercise Specialist at MercyOne Genesis, you will provide care by offering a variety of exercises and education to improve the patient'sfunctional capacity and psychosocial status in ...

As an Exercise Specialist at MercyOne Genesis, you will provide care by offering a variety of exercises and education to improve the patient'sfunctional capacity and psychosocial status in ...

The Exercise Specialist works in direct partnership with the primary care team to help patients work towards their health and wellness goals. The Exercise Specialist conducts advanced health fitness ...

As an Exercise Specialist at MercyOne Genesis, you will provide care by offering a variety of exercises and education to improve the patient'sfunctional capacity and psychosocial status in ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Exercise Specialist information

See salary details

$14

$30

$51

How much do exercise specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise specialist in the United States is $30.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $41.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do you need a degree to be an exercise specialist?

While a degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field is often preferred, some exercise specialist roles may accept certifications and relevant experience instead of a formal degree. Certification from organizations like the ACSM or NSCA can enhance job prospects and demonstrate expertise. Requirements vary by employer and specific job responsibilities.

What are Exercise Specialists?

Exercise Specialists are health and fitness professionals trained to develop and implement safe, effective exercise programs for individuals or groups. They often work with people recovering from illness or injury, those with chronic diseases, or anyone seeking personalized fitness guidance. Exercise Specialists assess clients' fitness levels, set realistic goals, monitor progress, and provide motivation and education on healthy lifestyle choices. Their expertise bridges the gap between general fitness instruction and clinical rehabilitation.

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

To thrive as an Exercise Specialist, you need a strong understanding of exercise science, anatomy, and program design, typically supported by a degree in a related field and certification such as ACSM or NASM. Familiarity with fitness assessment tools, exercise equipment, and health tracking software is essential. Excellent communication, motivational abilities, and interpersonal skills help you engage clients and support their progress. These skills ensure safe, effective programming and foster positive client outcomes in diverse fitness or rehabilitation settings.

How does an Exercise Specialist typically collaborate with other healthcare professionals in a clinical or fitness setting?

Exercise Specialists frequently work alongside physical therapists, physicians, and dietitians to develop and implement safe, effective exercise programs for clients with diverse health needs. Collaboration often includes reviewing medical histories, discussing client progress, and adjusting exercise plans based on interdisciplinary feedback. This team-based approach ensures clients receive holistic care and maximizes health outcomes, making communication and adaptability essential skills in this role.

What can I do with an exercise specialist certificate?

An exercise specialist certificate qualifies individuals to work in fitness settings, developing and guiding exercise programs for clients of various ages and health levels. It can lead to roles such as personal trainer, fitness instructor, or wellness coach, often requiring knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and exercise techniques. Certification enhances employment prospects in gyms, community centers, or healthcare facilities.

What is an exercise specialist?

An exercise specialist is a fitness professional who designs and implements exercise programs to improve clients' physical health, strength, and endurance. They often work in gyms, clinics, or rehabilitation centers and may hold certifications such as ACSM or NASM. Their role involves assessing fitness levels, providing guidance on proper technique, and motivating clients to achieve their fitness goals.

What is the difference between Exercise Specialist vs Physical Therapist?

AspectExercise SpecialistPhysical Therapist
CredentialsCertification (e.g., ACSM, NASM)Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) license
Work EnvironmentGyms, fitness centers, wellness programsHospitals, clinics, rehab centers
Industry UsageHealth and fitness industryHealthcare and rehabilitation
Primary FocusExercise programming and fitness improvementRehabilitation and injury recovery

While both Exercise Specialists and Physical Therapists work to improve health and mobility, Exercise Specialists focus on fitness and exercise programming in wellness settings, whereas Physical Therapists provide clinical rehabilitation services for injury recovery and medical conditions.

What Does an Exercise Specialist Do?

An exercise specialist helps clients plan and carry out fitness regimens in a variety of settings. These specialized trainers often work in a hospital, rehab facility, or another clinical setting. You can also find employment at health clubs and gyms. Your responsibilities in this career include monitoring a client or patient's exercise and teaching them the proper techniques so that they can carry on with their exercise program after leaving the facility. An exercise specialist may teach methods to increase strength and cardiovascular fitness, but you should also focus on things such as flexibility, balance, and functional performance.

What is the highest paying fitness job?

The highest paying fitness jobs often include roles such as fitness director, personal trainer with advanced certifications, or specialized clinical exercise physiologist, with salaries exceeding $70,000 annually. Executive-level positions in fitness organizations or owning a successful fitness business can also offer higher income potential, especially with experience and a strong client base.
What cities are hiring for Exercise Specialist jobs? Cities with the most Exercise Specialist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Exercise Specialist jobs? The most popular types of Exercise Specialist jobs are:
What states have the most Exercise Specialist jobs? States with the most job openings for Exercise Specialist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Exercise Specialist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,778 per year, or $30.2 per hour.
Exercise Specialist

Exercise Specialist

Canterbury Court, Inc.

Atlanta, GA โ€ข On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Description

Canterbury Court is a retirement community located in the heart of Buckhead, where we put our hearts into creating a true community. As a faith-based, not-for-profit organization, we reinvest revenue into our community for the benefit of residents and staff. We are Atlanta's first Life Plan Community (LPC) - what some call a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC).

ย 
Canterbury Court is seeking an Exercise Specialist to join our team. This Full-Time/Part-Time position is in the Wellness division of our Life Plan Community (LPC). We invite you to experience Canterbury Court.
ย 

Canterbury Court offers a competitive total compensation package that includes health & dental benefits, eligibility for a quarterly gift, group insurance plans, retirement savings plan with company match, off-street parking, and resident-funded scholarships.

Requirements

Lead invigorating water aerobics, water walking, or arthritis-focused classes that prioritize safety and joint-friendly, low-impact exercise. Conduct chair and standing, rhythm-based, or gentle movement classes tailored for residents with cognitive impairments to improve functional mobility and memory. Provide one-on-one training sessions, assessments, consultations, and recruitment for program participation.ย 


The Exercise Specialist is responsible for performing duties that are delegated by the Wellness Director. The Exercise Specialist is responsible for taking the initiative in leading programs that support the wellness department. He/she is also responsible for performing duties in a manner that positively reflects the mission of Canterbury Court to all residents, staff, volunteers, and the community.


Responsibilities

1. Requires the ability to recognize and follow through with priorities of his/her job. He/she performs routine duties with minimal supervision and seeks guidance and assistance as needed. ย ย ย 

2. Responsible for following employee policies and procedures and encourages other staff to do the same.

3. Responsible for conducting classes in independent, ย assisted, memory, and skilled nursing, aquatics, strength, and balance classes, personal training, fitness assessments, and/or consultations.

4. Responsible for designing and developing group fitness classes.

5. Responsible for maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of records, conditions, and other information relating to staff, residents, families, and the community.

6. Responsible for reporting any equipment failure to the Maintenance staff.

7. Responsible for providing support to Wellness staff as needed.

8. Responsible for communicating in an open, positive manner with residents, families, legal representatives, staff, community, and others.

9. Responsible for functioning as an effective team member to support wellness goals, objectives, and philosophy.ย 

10. Responsible for creating and maintaining a working atmosphere of warmth, positive emphasis, and a calm environment.

11. Responsible for demonstrating a commitment to the Wellness philosophy of Canterbury Court.

12. Responsible for consistently following personnel policies, employee policies, and departmental policies and procedures.

13. Responsible for opening/closing wellness areas when delegated by the supervisor.

14. Responsible for performing any and all other duties as assigned.

. ย 

JUDGMENT/INITIATIVE

Must exercise judgment and seek advice as required in performing job functions as assigned.ย 

Must be able to work with minimal supervision and guidance.ย 

Must be a self-directed and self-motivated worker.ย 

This individual should promote a team concept and show tact and understanding in all dealings.ย 

Must demonstrate flexibility, adaptability, and good problem-solving skills in a variety of settings while maintaining a positive attitude.ย 

This individual also remains flexible in time management while keeping a schedule of hours worked that promotes the best interests of Canterbury Court.ย 


EDUCATION/TRAINING

College degree in Exercise Science, Fitness, Health Promotion, and/or maintain one of the following nationally recognized group exercise certifications: AEA, ACE, ACSM, NASM, Water Safety, and First Aid/CPR.ย 


Three years of experience in the fitness field, with a focus on the older adult population, and senior fitness certification are preferred.


Current CPR/First Aid is required.