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Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Valid ACSM-Clinical Exercise Physiologist or Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist (or completed within 12 months of hire) * Valid driver's license * Current BLS and ACLS (or completed within 6 ...

American College of Sports Medicine Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-RCEP) certification Preferred. * 1 -2 years of relevant experience Preferred new graduates will be considered.

ACSM Clinical Exercise Specialist or Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist certification or the equivalent. * Demonstrates completion of an ECG monitoring course and/or the challenge exam and the ...

ACSM Clinical Exercise Specialist or Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist certification or the equivalent. * Demonstrates completion of an ECG monitoring course and/or the challenge exam and the ...

ACSM Clinical Exercise Specialist or Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist certification or the equivalent. * Demonstrates completion of an ECG monitoring course and/or the challenge exam and the ...

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Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist information

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$5

$26

$57

How much do registered clinical exercise physiologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for registered clinical exercise physiologist in the United States is $26.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $31.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a registered clinical exercise physiologist?

A Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist (RCEP) is a healthcare professional who specializes in developing and implementing exercise programs for individuals with chronic diseases or health conditions. They hold advanced degrees and certifications, and their expertise helps patients improve their health, manage symptoms, and enhance quality of life through safe, evidence-based physical activity. RCEPs often work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and clinics, collaborating with physicians and other healthcare providers to support patient care. Their role is crucial in the prevention and management of conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and pulmonary disorders.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a registered clinical exercise physiologist?

To thrive as a Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist, you need an in-depth understanding of exercise physiology, chronic disease management, and a degree in exercise science or related fields, typically complemented by ACSM-CEP (Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist) certification. Familiarity with cardiopulmonary exercise testing, ECG interpretation, and patient management software is essential. Exceptional interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to motivate and educate patients are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for safely designing and implementing effective exercise programs that improve patient outcomes in clinical settings.

What are some common challenges faced by registered clinical exercise physiologists when creating personalized exercise programs for clients with chronic health conditions?

Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologists often encounter challenges such as accommodating a wide range of physical abilities, medical histories, and comorbidities when designing customized exercise plans. Balancing clients' safety with the need to promote progress can be complex, especially when clients have fluctuating symptoms or limited motivation. Additionally, close collaboration with physicians and other healthcare providers is essential to ensure that exercise prescriptions align with medical recommendations and restrictions. Staying up to date with evolving guidelines and evidence-based practices is also crucial to deliver the best outcomes.

What is the difference between Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist vs Certified Personal Trainer?

AspectRegistered Clinical Exercise PhysiologistCertified Personal Trainer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Exercise Science, certification from accredited organizations, and registration with professional bodiesCertification from organizations like NASM, ACE, or ISSA; no formal degree required
Work EnvironmentHealthcare settings, hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centersGyms, fitness centers, private training studios
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare and rehabilitation industry, working with patients with chronic conditionsFitness and wellness industry, working with general population

The main difference is that Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologists are healthcare professionals with advanced training, working primarily in clinical settings to manage health conditions. Certified Personal Trainers focus on general fitness and wellness in gym environments. Both roles require certification, but the scope and work environment differ significantly.

Are registered clinical exercise physiologists in demand?

Registered clinical exercise physiologists are in growing demand due to increasing awareness of chronic disease management and the need for specialized rehabilitation programs. Employment opportunities are expected to expand in healthcare settings, fitness centers, and outpatient clinics, especially for those with advanced certifications and skills in exercise testing and program development.

What jobs can you get with a registered clinical exercise physiologist degree?

A registered clinical exercise physiologist can work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, and fitness facilities, designing and supervising exercise programs for patients with chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and pulmonary conditions. They often collaborate with healthcare teams, utilize assessment tools, and may hold certifications like ACSM or NSCA to enhance employment opportunities.
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What cities are hiring for Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist jobs?

Cities with the most Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist job openings:

What states have the most Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist jobs include:

Infographic showing various Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,810 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Exercise Physiologist

Madison, WI • On-site


UnityPoint Health
Hospitals • 10K+ employees

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 363 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

303rd of 895 rated healthcare providers

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

16356BR

FTE: 0.5

Shift: Days/weekends/call/holiday

Compensation: 26.34+

Hours Per Week: 20-28

Weekends: Some

Benefit Eligible

Clinical Exercise Physiologist

The UnityPoint – Meriter Clinical Exercise Physiologist is responsible for performing diagnostic cardiac procedures/tests by use of electrocardiogram, application of Holter/event or ambulatory monitor and conducting diagnostic stress testing. The UnityPoint – Meriter Clinical Exercise Physiologist must be able to apply the scientific principles of exercise training in dealing with clientele and provide direct oversight and leadership to promote the safety of all patients during the delivery of care in the ECG department.

At UnityPoint Health, you matter. We’re proud to be recognized as a Top Place to Work in Healthcare by Becker's Healthcare several years in a row for our commitment to our team members.

Our competitive Total Rewards program offers benefits options focused on your needs and priorities, no matter what life stage you’re in. Here are just a few:    

  • Expect paid time off, parental leave, 401K matching and an employee recognition program.

  • Dental, health and vision insurance, paid holidays, short and long-term disability and more. We even offer pet insurance for your four-legged family members.

  • Tuition reimbursement to help further your career and adoption assistance to help you grow your family.

With a collective goal to champion a culture of belonging where everyone feels valued and respected, we honor the ways people are unique and embrace what brings us together.  

And we believe equipping you with support and development opportunities is a vital part of delivering an exceptional employment experience.

UnityPoint Health - Meriter and UW Health work closely together to deliver exceptional healthcare services to our community.

Join our team of experts and make a difference with UnityPoint Health.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Graduate of an accredited master’s degree Clinical Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology, Exercise Science or related field

  • Satisfactory completion of clinical work as required by the university attended.

  • 3-6 months of outpatient or inpatient clinical exercise programs which indicates successful ability to assume responsibilities within a team context.

  • Cardiovascular assessment and ECG interpretation

  • Practicum experience involving stress testing and exercise counseling.

  • Valid ACSM-Clinical Exercise Physiologist or Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist (or completed within 12 months of hire)

  • Valid driver’s license

  • Current BLS and ACLS (or completed within 6-12 months of hire)

  • Proficient independent critical thinking and clinical decision making based on client’s presentation and physical status

  • Recognizes contraindications to exercise and abnormal patient responses to exercise

  • Strong understanding of cardiac pathophysiology, exercise physiology, ECG interpretation, arrhythmias, and medications

  • Common sense and practical reasoning

  • Basic problem-solving abilities.

  • Strong oral and written communication skills

  • Effective listening skills

  • Ability to pay attention to details, often changing from one task to another without loss of efficiency or composure

  • Requires critical thinking skills, decisive judgement, and the ability to work with minimal supervision

  • Ability to maintain composure under stressful working conditions

  • First responder to medical emergencies in a setting where high risk patients are served

  • Maintain high quality and productivity in a fast paced and changing health care environment.

    PREFERRED:

  • One or more years of experience in field of exercise physiology.

  • Basic computer skills including proficiency with keyboarding

  • Experience with computerized documentation systems

  • Behavior change counseling and motivational strategies

  • Active participation in a professional organization


UnityPoint Health logo

About UnityPoint Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At UnityPoint Health, we provide care in nine regions throughout Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin. As the nation's fourth largest nondenominational health system in America, UnityPoint Health keeps people at the center of all we do. We are looking for dynamic and talented individuals to join our team. You'll find opportunities for every sized dream.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

West Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1995


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