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Independent Contractor Exercise Physiologist Jobs in Virginia

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Independent Contractor Exercise Physiologist information

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$47

How much do independent contractor exercise physiologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for independent contractor exercise physiologist 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 are some common challenges independent contractor exercise physiologists face when managing their own client base?

As an independent contractor exercise physiologist, one of the main challenges is balancing client acquisition with providing high-quality service. You'll need to handle your own marketing, scheduling, and administrative tasks, which can be time-consuming but are essential for building a sustainable business. Additionally, maintaining up-to-date certifications and ensuring compliance with industry standards requires ongoing commitment. Since you're not part of a larger organization, networking with healthcare professionals and gyms is crucial for referrals and collaboration.

What is an independent contractor exercise physiologist?

An Independent Contractor Exercise Physiologist is a health and fitness professional who specializes in developing personalized exercise programs for clients, often working on a freelance or contract basis rather than as an employee of a single organization. They assess individual fitness levels, design exercise plans to improve health and performance, and may work with special populations, such as those with chronic health conditions. As independent contractors, they typically manage their own schedules, client relationships, and business operations, giving them flexibility but also requiring strong organizational and business skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an independent contractor exercise physiologist?

To thrive as an Independent Contractor Exercise Physiologist, you need a deep understanding of exercise science, physiology, and client assessment, typically supported by a relevant degree and professional certification such as ACSM-EP or equivalent. Familiarity with fitness assessment tools, exercise prescription software, and client management systems is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, self-motivation, and clear communication help build client trust and manage a flexible, autonomous workload. These competencies ensure effective program delivery, maintain professional credibility, and support business growth in a competitive health and wellness market.
What are the most commonly searched types of Exercise Physiologist jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Exercise Physiologist jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Independent Contractor Exercise Physiologist jobs in Virginia? For Independent Contractor Exercise Physiologist jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Exercise Physiologist jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Exercise Physiologist jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Independent Contractor Exercise Physiologist jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Independent Contractor Exercise Physiologist job openings:
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Exercise Physiologist job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,468 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Exercise Physiologist - Cardiopulmonary Rehab at Reynolds Crossing - PRN

VCU Health

Richmond, VA • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


VCU Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 171 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

305th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

-- Seeking experienced exercise physiologist to join our team! Master's degree in Exercise Physiology strongly preferred --
Depending on the work assignment, the Exercise Physiologist may administer physician-ordered cardiopulmonary exercise assessments including exercise and pharmacologic cardiac stress tests and/or develop and guide exercise treatment plans for patients with chronic diseases primarily including but not limited to cardiovascular, pulmonary, and metabolic disorders.
The Exercise Physiologist recognizes and responds immediately and appropriately to potential emergency situations that may arise, and makes clinical decisions about safety and contraindications of assessment/testing/training procedures.
Licensure, Certification, or Registration Requirements for Hire:
Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)*
*must successfully obtain certification within the first 6 months of employment
Licensure, Certification, or Registration Requirements for continued employment:
Current ACSM Clinical Exercise Physiologist certification
Current CPR (BLS-C)
Current Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification
Experience REQUIRED: N/A
Experience PREFERRED:
Two (2) years or more of experience in exercise testing of clinical cardiopulmonary populations (not athletes or apparently healthy populations) or cardiovascular/pulmonary rehabilitation environment
Education/training REQUIRED:
Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science, Exercise
Physiology or related allied health field
Education/training PREFERRED:
Master's Degree in Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology or related allied health field
Independent action(s) required:
Administers prescribed cardiopulmonary assessments or formulate and carry out rehabilitation prescription; exercises judgement to adjust testing/exercise parameters; and determines when to resume or terminate assessments/exercise based on clinical observations and established protocols.
Supervisory responsibilities (if applicable):
Team member is part of a self-directed team and is responsible to assist in problem solving and ensuring a safe environment for patients.
Problems which cannot be resolved will be taken to the administrative manager for assistance in their resolution.
Additional position requirements: N/A
Age Specific groups served: Pediatric, Adolescence, Geriatric, Adult
Physical Requirements (includes use of assistance devices as appropriate):
Physical - Lifting 50-100 lbs.
Activities: Frequent bending, Walking (distance), Climbing (steps, ladder, other), Reaching (overhead, extensive, repetitive), Repetitive motion Mental/Sensory: Strong recall, Reasoning, Problem solving, Hearing, Speak clearly, Write legibly, Reading, Logical thinking
Emotional: Fast pace environment, Steady pace, Able to handle multiple priorities, Frequent and intense customer interactions, Noisy environment, Able to adapt to frequent change
EEO Employer/Disabled/Protected Veteran

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