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Exercise Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

ACE American Council on Exercise * NSCA National Strength and Conditioning Association * Cooper Institute - Personal Training Certification * NCSF National Council on Strength and Fitness * Academy ...

Personal Trainer

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$18 - $45/hr

SALES AND SERVICE OF MEMBERS • Instruct members on proper use of club equipment and exercise techniques. • Assist, at the club management's request, in any member service activities (e.g ...

Personal Trainer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$25 - $50/hr

SALES AND SERVICE OF MEMBERS • Instruct members on proper use of club equipment and exercise techniques. • Assist, at the club management's request, in any member service activities (e.g ...

ACE -American Council on Exercise * NSCA - National Strength and Conditioning Association * Cooper Institute - Personal Training Certification * NCSF - National Council on Strength and Fitness

ACE -American Council on Exercise * NSCA - National Strength and Conditioning Association * Cooper Institute - Personal Training Certification * NCSF - National Council on Strength and Fitness

RN-Cardiopulmonary Rehab

Boone, IA · On-site

$1K - $2K/wk

Implements exercise plans and training per patient's ability and needs. * Evaluates and documents patient's response to exercise. Evaluates each patient's current risk factors and encourages ...

Monitor exercise participants to ensure safety and adherence to workout plans. * Lead and instruct diverse group exercise classes, catering to various fitness levels. * Conduct fitness assessments ...

Monitor exercise participants to ensure safety and adherence to workout plans. * Lead and instruct diverse group exercise classes, catering to various fitness levels. * Conduct fitness assessments ...

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Showing results 1-20

Exercise information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$26

$44

How much do exercise jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise in Iowa is $26.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.42 and $31.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To excel as an Exercise Physiologist, you generally need a bachelor's degree in exercise science or a related field, strong knowledge of human physiology, and experience in fitness assessment and program development. Familiarity with fitness testing equipment, data analysis software, and relevant certifications such as ACSM or NSCA are typically required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, motivational abilities, and strong communication help build rapport and guide clients toward their health goals. These competencies are essential to create safe, effective exercise programs and ensure positive health outcomes for diverse populations.

What are exercise physiologists?

Exercise physiologists are healthcare professionals who study the body’s response to physical activity and use this knowledge to help people improve their health, fitness, and performance. They often design and supervise exercise programs for individuals with chronic diseases, athletes, or those seeking general wellness. Exercise physiologists work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, fitness facilities, and research institutions.

What is the difference between Exercise vs Personal Trainer?

AspectExercisePersonal Trainer
Required CredentialsNone or basic fitness certificationsCertified Personal Trainer (CPT) certification
Work EnvironmentSelf-directed, gyms, outdoor settingsGuiding clients in gyms, fitness centers, or private settings
Industry UsageGeneral term for physical activitySpecific profession providing personalized fitness coaching
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding physical activity optionsSeeking personalized fitness guidance or career info

Exercise refers to physical activities performed to improve health, fitness, or performance, often self-directed. A personal trainer is a certified professional who designs and guides personalized workout plans for clients, often working in gyms or fitness centers. While exercise is a broad concept, a personal trainer specializes in coaching and motivating individuals to achieve their fitness goals.

What are some common challenges faced by Exercise Physiologists when designing personalized fitness programs for clients?

Exercise Physiologists often encounter challenges such as accommodating clients' varying health conditions, fitness levels, and personal goals. It requires careful assessment and ongoing adjustments to ensure safety and effectiveness, especially when working with individuals managing chronic diseases or recovering from injuries. Collaboration with other healthcare professionals, like physicians and physical therapists, is also important to provide comprehensive care. Staying updated on the latest research and best practices helps overcome these challenges and supports positive client outcomes.
Infographic showing various Exercise job openings in Iowa as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,392 per year, or $26.6 per hour.
Personal Trainer- Des Moines

Personal Trainer- Des Moines

Genesis Health Clubs

Clive, IA • On-site

$36K - $66K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 25 days ago


Genesis Health Clubs rating

5.2

Company rating: 5.2 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

52nd of 61 rated gym and leisure clubs


Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee discounts
  • Health insurance
  • Training & development

Description
Genesis is looking for a full time personal trainer. Degree preferred but not required.
Job Summary
Do you want to make a difference in peoples life? Genesis is currently seeking Full and Part-Time Personal Trainers at all of our locations. A love for fitness is a must! Want to get started, apply NOW!
Accepted certifications
  • ACSM American College of Sports Medicine
  • NASM National Academy of Sports Medicine
  • ACE American Council on Exercise
  • NSCA National Strength and Conditioning Association
  • Cooper Institute - Personal Training Certification
  • NCSF National Council on Strength and Fitness
  • Academy of Applied Personal Training Education
  • AFFA-Aerobics and Fitness Association of America
  • IFPA -International Fitness Professionals Association
  • ISSA International Sport Sciences Association
  • NETA - National Exercise Trainers Association
  • NESTA National Exercise and Sports Trainers Association
  • NFPT- National Federation of Personal Trainer
  • Training and Wellness Certification Commission

Grace Period for Certifications: Personal trainers with an "approved degree related to the field of exercise science" will be required to take a National Personal Training Certification Exam within 90 days of employment from one of the following certifying organizations listed above.
Accepted degrees:
Athletic Training, Chiropractic, Exercise Physiology, Exercise Science, Fitness Management, Human Performance, Kinesiology, Nutrition, Physical Education, Physical Therapy, Sports Management, Sports Medicine.
If you are interested in helping inspire and lead people to incorporate fitness into their lives and also show your knowledge and caring, this is the position for you.
We have a reputation of having the most knowledgeable and educated trainers and provide continuing education for all of our training staff.

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