Exercise Physiologists
Exercise physiologists design and oversee fitness programs aimed at improving cardiovascular health, body composition, strength, endurance, or flexibility. They work in hospitals, clinics, fitness centers, corporate wellness programs, and rehabilitation facilities, assessing clients' fitness levels and monitoring their progress through exercise and physical activity.
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A day in the work
Exercise physiologists typically spend time evaluating clients' fitness baselines through tests and measurements, designing customized exercise programs based on assessment results, and leading or supervising workout sessions. They track progress, adjust programs as needed, maintain detailed records, and often communicate with physicians or other healthcare providers about client outcomes and recommendations.
Who this work suits
Holland code RIS. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to be detail-oriented and curious about how the body responds to physical activity, enjoying the investigative side of fitness science. You're comfortable working hands-on with people and equipment, and you're drawn to solving practical problems through evidence-based assessment and planning.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience).
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | $76,370 | $81,310 | $85,060 | 160 |
| Oregon | $63,400 | $71,630 | $75,990 | 80 |
| Minnesota | $62,790 | $67,230 | $77,910 | 250 |
| Massachusetts | $62,410 | $65,950 | $77,500 | 180 |
| New Jersey | $60,990 | $64,680 | $74,050 | 130 |
| Colorado | $52,950 | $63,800 | $75,350 | 370 |
| New Hampshire | $56,320 | $63,590 | $74,620 | 50 |
| Wisconsin | $60,660 | $63,210 | $72,240 | 340 |
| Connecticut | $49,850 | $62,510 | $67,520 | 100 |
| California | $54,900 | $62,440 | $81,330 | 640 |
| Arizona | $54,990 | $62,350 | $77,630 | 220 |
| Maryland | $52,930 | $62,220 | $64,810 | 90 |
All 42 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Exercise Physiologist Certification (EPC) — American Society of Exercise Physiologists
- Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-CEP) — American College of Sports Medicine
- Clinical Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-CEP) — American College of Sports Medicine
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against exercise physiologists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 29-1128.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.