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Teen Exercise Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Fitness Director

Rocky Mount, VA · On-site

$40K - $43K/yr

Master's degree in exercise science, or a related field from an accredited college or university a ... teens, adults, and special populations. Must understand the relationship of the general public ...

Group Fitness Instructor

Dallas, TX · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Experience coaching multiple age groups (youth, teen, and/or adult) * Nationally accredited certification (NASM, NSCA, CSCS, ACE, etc.) * S&C or speed/agility background * Degree in Exercise Science ...

Fitness Director

Boston, MA · On-site

$57K - $62K/yr

Bachelor's degree in exercise science, or a related field from an accredited college or university ... teens, adults, and special populations. * Must understand the relationship of the general public ...

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Teen Exercise Science information

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How much do teen exercise science jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for teen exercise science in the United States is $23.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What can I do with a minor in exercise science?

A minor in exercise science can prepare you for entry-level roles such as fitness trainer, personal trainer, or sports coach. It provides foundational knowledge of human movement, anatomy, and health, which can be useful for working in gyms, sports teams, or wellness programs, often alongside certifications like CPR or personal training credentials.

What jobs can I get with just an exercise science degree?

With a degree in exercise science, you can pursue roles such as personal trainer, fitness instructor, strength and conditioning coach, or rehabilitation specialist. These positions often require knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and fitness assessment, and may benefit from certifications like CPR or personal training credentials.

What is the difference between Teen Exercise Science vs Youth Fitness Specialist?

AspectTeen Exercise ScienceYouth Fitness Specialist
CertificationsCPR/AED, Exercise Science certifications, youth-specific certificationsCPR/AED, youth fitness certifications, personal trainer certifications
Work EnvironmentSchools, research labs, sports programs for teensGyms, community centers, fitness clubs for children and teens
Industry UsageAcademic, research, health promotion for teensFitness training, personal coaching for youth

Teen Exercise Science focuses on research, health promotion, and understanding adolescent exercise behaviors, often within academic or health settings. In contrast, Youth Fitness Specialists primarily work in fitness centers or community programs, providing direct exercise instruction and fitness plans for children and teenagers. Both roles require CPR/AED and youth-specific certifications, but Teen Exercise Science emphasizes research and health education, while Youth Fitness Specialists focus on practical fitness training.

What is teen exercise science?

Teen exercise science is the study of how physical activity, exercise, and sports impact the health, development, and performance of adolescents. It combines principles from biology, physiology, psychology, and nutrition to help teens build healthy habits and improve fitness safely. Professionals in this field often design age-appropriate workouts, educate about injury prevention, and promote lifelong wellness among teenagers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Teen Exercise Science Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Teen Exercise Science Specialist, you need a solid understanding of exercise physiology, kinesiology, and youth physical development, typically supported by a degree in exercise science or a related field. Familiarity with fitness assessment tools, exercise programming software, and certifications such as ACSM or NASM Youth Exercise Specialist is valuable. Strong communication, motivational skills, and the ability to connect with adolescents are crucial soft skills for engaging and guiding young clients. These skills ensure safe, effective, and age-appropriate fitness programs that foster healthy habits and positive experiences for teens.

What are some common challenges teen exercise science instructors face when working with adolescent clients?

Teen exercise science instructors often encounter unique challenges, such as tailoring exercise programs to accommodate the varying physical maturity and motivation levels among adolescents. It can be difficult to keep teens engaged and motivated, especially when balancing safety with the desire for visible progress. Instructors also need to foster a supportive, inclusive environment that encourages healthy habits while addressing individual concerns or insecurities. Collaborating closely with parents, coaches, and other health professionals is crucial to ensure safe and effective training for young clients.

What are good minors for exercise science majors?

Exercise science majors often choose minors such as nutrition, sports management, psychology, or biology to complement their knowledge and enhance career opportunities in health, fitness, or sports industries. These minors can provide additional skills in areas like health promotion, athlete performance, or understanding human behavior, which are valuable in related roles. Certifications like CPR or personal training can also improve job prospects in the field.

What jobs can you do as an exercise scientist?

As an exercise scientist, you can work as a fitness trainer, sports performance specialist, clinical exercise physiologist, or research assistant. These roles often involve designing training programs, conducting fitness assessments, and applying knowledge of human physiology, sometimes requiring certifications like ACSM or NSCA. Employment settings include gyms, sports teams, healthcare facilities, and research institutions.
What job categories do people searching Teen Exercise Science jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Teen Exercise Science jobs are:
Infographic showing various Teen Exercise Science job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,575 per year, or $23.8 per hour.
Group Exercise Instructor - Tai Chi

Group Exercise Instructor - Tai Chi

YMCA of Greater Boston

Boston, MA • On-site

$25 - $39/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


YMCA Of Greater Boston rating

5.2

Company rating: 5.2 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

625th of 710 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

Group Exercise Instructor Job Description
 
Reporting to the Health and Wellness Director and working with other Wellness staff, the Group Exercise Instructor instructs group exercise classes in a safe, enjoyable, and positive environment that welcomes all skill and fitness levels. Effectively builds community within class. Modifies class as needed to meet varied health, ability and cultural needs. The YMCA is actively seeking a group exercise instructor who can be a leader in developing sound healthy habits with our members through engaging leadership in our classes.  We are currently accepting applicants for all varieties of group exercise offerings as we continue to build the offerings to meet the needs of our growing members.

 The qualified candidate will have the ability to lead a group of participants through a series of movements and exercises in a safe and effective manner.  The candidate must hold a current certification in Group Exercise from a nationally certifying body.  NCCA accredited certifications are preferred.

 Schedule:
  Part Time Hours

 Hourly Rate
:  $30 - $40 

 
Essential Functions:
  1. Leads energizing, fun, safe, and educational group classes, as directed by the supervisor, to provide high quality experiences for our members and guests.
  2. Asks and answers questions from program participants and members to support them in achieving their goals related to health and well-being.
  3. Through YUSA courses and external training, maintains working knowledge of wellness trends to provide effective information and support to members.
  4. Builds effective, authentic relationships with members; helps members and program participants connect with each other and the YMCA.
  5. Observes and adjusts approach to support all participants' capabilities, physical conditions, health, and culture.
  6. Celebrates achievement of program participants related to program or personal goals, mastering of specific skills or overall health and well-being.
  7. Keeps accurate class attendance records through our online Group Exercise Management software. (MotionVibe)
  8. Follows YMCA policies and procedures; responds to emergency situations
  9. Resolves member issues professionally and in alignment with YMCA values.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:  
  1. At least one year of experience in Group Exercise setting.
  2. NCCA accredited certification. Ex. ACE, AFFA, NASM, NSCA, ISSA etc.
  3. If teaching a specific group exercise format, current certification required. Examples: Yoga, Spin, Les Mills Body Pump and Body Combat
  4. Experience in health and wellness programming and group instruction.
  5. Understanding of internal and external marketing/special events.

 SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES/KNOW HOW:
  1. Understand the relationship of the public to the association, of staff to volunteer, and of staff to staff, and be able to effectively enhance and cultivate those relationships.
  2. Ability to interpret, carry out and implement into classes/programs, the mission and goals of the YMCA.
  3. Demonstrates commitment to creating an inclusive environment for participants of all backgrounds, abilities and experience. 
  4. Work as an integral member of a staff team.
  5. Ability to communicate effectively with adults, youth, teens, seniors and special populations.
  6. Degree in Exercise Science or Physical Education preferred but not required.
  7. CPR/AED and First Aid certifications
  8. A minimum of 1 year of experience in fitness.
 
Why work at the Y? 
The YMCA of Greater Boston is an incredible place to have a fulfilling career or enjoy part-time employment - all while we are supporting and strengthening our communities, because our community is our cause. When you join us in your career here, you can look forward to:  
  • Developing your leadership skills in a caring, challenging & diverse working environment. 
  • Exploring a wide range of opportunities as you learn new skills and functions. 
  • Shaping the future of young children while making a difference each day for our communities and each other. 
  • Engaging in YMCA career training programs and working alongside those who have the same passion. 
  • A healthy work/life balance 
  • Comprehensive benefits including: 
  • FREE YMCA Membership for you. 
  • Discount on Specialty Programs like Personal Training and Swimming Lessons. 
  • Discounted or FREE family membership. 
  • Robust Retirement Plan up to 10%. (see eligibility requirement) 
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Benefit Package. 
  • Vacation and Sick Time (PT receive sick time) 

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