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Physical Trainer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Athletic Trainer

Brooklyn, MI · On-site

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Physical therapyisn'tjust about recovery;it'sabout transformation. Our team thrives on providing ... Reporting to the AT Manager, the Associate Athletic Trainer will be working alongside medical ...

Athletic Trainer

Brooklyn, MI · On-site

$50K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Physical therapy isn't just about recovery; it's about transformation. Our team thrives on ... Reporting to the AT Manager, the Associate Athletic Trainer will be working alongside medical ...

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Showing results 1-20

Physical Trainer information

See Michigan salary details

$10

$23

$41

How much do physical trainer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for physical trainer in Michigan is $23.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $27.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges physical trainers face when working with clients of varying fitness levels?

Physical Trainers often work with clients who have diverse backgrounds, abilities, and goals, which can present unique challenges. Adapting workout plans to meet individual needs—while ensuring safety and motivation for each client—requires strong communication and problem-solving skills. Trainers must frequently assess progress, modify exercises for injuries or limitations, and keep clients engaged to help them overcome plateaus. Building trust and maintaining a positive, encouraging environment is key to helping clients achieve long-term results.

What is the difference between Physical Trainer vs Personal Trainer?

AspectPhysical TrainerPersonal Trainer
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, fitness certifications (e.g., NASM, ACE)CPR, First Aid, fitness certifications (e.g., NASM, ACE)
Work EnvironmentGyms, fitness centers, sports teamsGyms, private clients, outdoor settings
Employer & Industry UsageFitness centers, sports organizationsIndependent, gyms, wellness programs
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both Physical Trainers and Personal Trainers require similar certifications and often work in gyms or fitness centers. The main difference lies in their focus: Physical Trainers may work more with rehabilitation or sports-specific training, while Personal Trainers typically focus on individualized fitness goals for general clients. Understanding these distinctions can help you choose the right professional for your fitness needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a physical trainer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Physical Trainer, you need a solid background in exercise science, anatomy, and physiology, typically supported by a relevant degree and a recognized certification such as NASM, ACE, or ACSM. Familiarity with fitness assessment tools, training equipment, and health tracking software is commonly required. Exceptional communication, motivation, and interpersonal skills help trainers build rapport with clients and guide them toward their goals. These competencies are crucial for designing safe, effective training programs and fostering client success and satisfaction.

What is a physical trainer?

A Physical Trainer, also known as a personal trainer or fitness trainer, is a professional who helps individuals achieve their fitness and wellness goals. They design personalized exercise programs, provide guidance on proper technique, and offer motivation and support throughout a client's fitness journey. Physical Trainers may also educate clients about healthy lifestyle choices and basic nutrition. They often work in gyms, fitness centers, or as independent consultants, and can work with people of all ages and fitness levels.
Infographic showing various Physical Trainer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, and 62% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,012 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Athletic Trainer - Outpatient Physical Therapy Clinic

Peak Performance Physical Therapy

Lansing, MI • On-site

$22.75 - $31.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 hours ago


Job description

Peak Performance Physical Therapy is committed to helping patients recover, move better, and return to the lives they love. Our team values clinical excellence, strong communication, relationship-based care, and a patient-first experience from the first visit through discharge.
We are looking for a Certified Athletic Trainer who wants to be part of that mission and make a meaningful impact every day.
Location: Peak Performance Physical Therapy
Position Type: Full-Time
Reports To: Clinic Director / Physical Therapist
This position is ideal for an Athletic Trainer who enjoys direct patient care, therapeutic exercise, movement coaching, mobility work, injury prevention, and supporting patients through rehabilitation and return to activity. The Athletic Trainer will work closely with Physical Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants, and clinic team members to help patients recover, move better, and stay active.
We are looking for someone who is energetic, clinically curious, patient-centered, and excited to be part of a collaborative physical therapy environment. This is not a sideline-only Athletic Trainer role. It is a clinic-based position focused on patient care, rehab support, wellness, recovery, and performance.
What you'll do
  • Assist Physical Therapists and Physical Therapist Assistants with patient care under appropriate supervision.
  • Support patients through therapeutic exercise programs, mobility training, stretching, balance work, strengthening, and functional movement activities.
  • Provide direct patient care support in an outpatient orthopedic and sports medicine setting.
  • Coach patients on proper exercise technique, movement quality, body mechanics, and safe progression.
  • Assist with injury prevention, return-to-activity preparation, and performance-based movement strategies.
  • Support patients recovering from orthopedic injuries, sports injuries, post-surgical conditions, mobility limitations, and general movement dysfunctions.
  • Communicate patient response, tolerance, progress, and concerns to the treating provider.
  • Help maintain patient flow and create a positive, attentive, and professional clinic experience.
  • Educate patients on recovery strategies, home exercise programs, wellness habits, and long-term movement goals.
  • Assist with clinic-based wellness, stretching, recovery, and performance initiatives.
  • Maintain a clean, safe, organized, and welcoming clinical environment.
  • Represent Peak Performance Physical Therapy with professionalism, warmth, teamwork, and commitment to excellent patient care.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Athletic Training.
  • Current Athletic Trainer Certification through the BOC.
  • Current or eligible Michigan Athletic Trainer license.
  • CPR/AED certification required.
  • Experience in outpatient physical therapy, orthopedics, sports medicine, athletic training, or performance settings preferred.
  • Strong interest in therapeutic exercise, movement coaching, mobility, injury prevention, and rehabilitation.
  • Comfortable working with a variety of patients, including athletes, active adults, post-operative patients, and individuals working to improve strength, mobility, and function.
  • Strong communication, organization, and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-based clinical environment.
  • Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and willingness to learn.
  • Passion for helping patients feel supported, confident, and engaged in their recovery.

What We Offer
  • Full-time opportunity in a growing outpatient physical therapy practice.
  • Collaborative environment with experienced Physical Therapists and clinical leaders.
  • Direct patient care experience in an orthopedic and sports medicine setting.
  • Opportunity to support rehab, wellness, mobility, stretching, recovery, and performance-based services.
  • Team culture focused on growth, communication, patient experience, and excellent care.
  • Competitive compensation based on experience.
  • Benefits package available for full-time team members.

Schedule
Full-time schedule based on clinic needs. Some evening availability may be required to support patient care hours.