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Self Employed Exercise Physiologist Jobs in Riverside, CA

Intermediate knowledge of physiology, exercise technique, and body mechanics * CPR certified * Positive, motivating, and effective interpersonal communication skills * Self-starter that just gets a ...

Intermediate knowledge of physiology, exercise technique, and body mechanics * CPR certified * Positive, motivating, and effective interpersonal communication skills * Self-starter that just gets a ...

Self Employed Exercise Physiologist information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$13

$29

$49

How much do self employed exercise physiologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for self employed exercise physiologist in Riverside, CA is $29.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.59 and $35.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a self employed exercise physiologist?

Self employed exercise physiologists are health professionals who assess, plan, and implement exercise programs to help individuals improve their fitness, manage chronic conditions, or recover from injuries, and who run their own independent businesses rather than working for a hospital, clinic, or gym. They often consult with clients directly, manage their own schedules, and handle business operations such as marketing, billing, and client acquisition. This allows them greater flexibility and the ability to tailor services to their clients' specific needs. Self employed exercise physiologists may work in various settings, including private studios, clients' homes, or online.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a self employed exercise physiologist?

To thrive as a Self Employed Exercise Physiologist, you need a solid background in exercise science, physiology, and health assessment, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree and professional certification (such as ACSM or ESSA). Familiarity with fitness assessment tools, exercise prescription software, and business management systems is essential for both client care and running your own practice. Strong interpersonal skills, self-motivation, and effective communication help build client trust and sustain business growth. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering safe, effective programs and maintaining a successful, client-focused practice.

What are some common challenges faced by self employed exercise physiologists and how can they be managed?

Self-employed exercise physiologists often face challenges such as client acquisition, managing irregular income, and handling administrative tasks like billing and scheduling. Building a reliable client base requires strong networking and marketing skills, while fluctuating income can be managed through careful financial planning and diversification of service offerings. Additionally, utilizing management software and setting clear boundaries between administrative and client-facing hours can help streamline operations and reduce stress. Staying current with industry trends and continuing education also ensures competitive and effective service delivery.

What is the difference between Self Employed Exercise Physiologist vs Employed Exercise Physiologist?

AspectSelf Employed Exercise PhysiologistEmployed Exercise Physiologist
CredentialsTypically holds required certifications (e.g., ESSA, ACSM) and licensesSame as self-employed, often with employer-specific requirements
Work EnvironmentOwn practice, clinics, gyms, or client homesHospitals, clinics, fitness centers, or corporate settings
Employer & Industry UsageOperates independently or as a contractorWorks for an organization or healthcare provider
Work FlexibilityHigh; controls schedule and client baseLess flexible; follows employer hours and policies

Self Employed Exercise Physiologists have the advantage of setting their own schedules and choosing clients, but they also handle business responsibilities. Employed Exercise Physiologists work within organizations, offering similar clinical services but with less control over their work environment and hours.

Is it hard to find a job as a self employed exercise physiologist?

Finding work as a self-employed exercise physiologist can be challenging due to competition and the need to build a client base. Success often depends on certifications, networking, marketing skills, and establishing a reputation in the local community or healthcare settings.

Is there a demand for self employed exercise physiologists?

The demand for self-employed exercise physiologists is growing due to increased awareness of preventive health and chronic disease management. Opportunities are available in outpatient clinics, fitness centers, and private practice, often requiring certification and specialized knowledge in rehabilitation and fitness assessment. Job growth is expected to align with the broader healthcare and wellness industries.

What careers can you do with self employed exercise physiologist?

A self-employed exercise physiologist can work in private practice, offering personalized rehabilitation, fitness, and wellness programs. They may also collaborate with healthcare providers, gyms, or sports teams, and often require certifications and knowledge of exercise science, injury prevention, and patient assessment. These careers involve flexible schedules and client management skills.

Where do self employed exercise physiologists make the most money?

Self-employed exercise physiologists tend to earn higher incomes in regions with a higher demand for specialized rehabilitation and fitness services, such as urban areas with a higher concentration of healthcare facilities and affluent populations. Income can also vary based on experience, certifications, and the ability to build a strong client base, often leading to higher earnings through private practice or specialized clinics.

What are the most commonly searched types of Exercise Physiologist jobs in Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Exercise Physiologist jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Self Employed Exercise Physiologist jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Self Employed Exercise Physiologist job openings:

Infographic showing various Self Employed Exercise Physiologist job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,526 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

KidStrong Coach Part Time

Orange, CA โ€ข On-site

$25/hr

Part-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Are you looking for a workplace where you can be part of a fun, energetic, and professional team that loves what they do? Our KidStrong Orange location is rapidly growing and we are looking for talented, enthusiastic professionals who are passionate, energetic, and excited to engage with parents and kids and make an impact on their lives! If you enjoy working with children, making children smarter & stronger, and working with an amazing team, then let’s talk!
WHAT IS KIDSTRONG?
At KidStrong, we help parents build stronger, smarter, more athletic kids. Our private training centers focus on the brain, physical and character development for ages 6 months through 11 years old. KidStrong is a science-based curriculum that is parent-focused and taught by our professional coaches!
 
KidStrong is rapidly growing and we're looking for talented, enthusiastic professionals who are passionate, energetic, and excited to engage with parents and kids and make an impact on their lives. 
 
 
OPEN ROLE
  • We are looking for coaches with an athletic or coaching background who ideally have experience coaching kids ages 15mo-8 years old or pediatric OT/PT experience. 
  • Our classes run on weekdays mid-mornings and evenings until 7 pm. 
  • On weekends we start at 8 AM and run through lunchtime. 
  • Opportunity for a flexible work schedule depending on studio needs. 
  • Additional opportunity to increase scheduled hours through private class coaching hours.
 
JOB QUALIFICATIONS
  • Experience coaching students within the appropriate KidStrong age
  • Experience talking to and educating parents on our curriculum 
  • Intermediate knowledge of physiology, exercise technique, and body mechanics
  • CPR certified
  • Positive, motivating, and effective interpersonal communication skills
  • Self-starter that just gets a job done