Exercise Physiologists
Exercise physiologists develop fitness and exercise programs to help people improve their health.
Is exercise physiologists a good career?
It scores 24/100 and ranks #224 of 825 occupations on pay, growth, employment and openings. Here's what the federal data says, with no editorializing.
Advantages
- Faster-than-average projected growth (+9.5% through 2034)
Possible tradeoffs
- Typically requires a bachelor's degree
What exercise physiologists earn
Wages: BLS OEWS May 2025Pay is a range, not a number. Half of U.S. exercise physiologists earn between $49,620 and $67,230 a year.
Best-paying states
Best-paying metros
Strongest employment concentration
Live exercise physiologists jobs
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- Typical education
- Bachelor's degree
- Work experience
- None
- On-the-job training
- None
- Outlook
- Employment is projected to grow much faster than average through 2034.
Education
Exercise physiologists typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in exercise physiology, exercise science, kinesiology, or another healthcare and related field. Master’s degree programs also are available. Degree programs include science and health-related courses, such as anatomy, kinesiology, and nutrition, as well as clinical work.
Some students participate in internships or practicums, sometimes offered as part of their degree program. These opportunities allow students to gain hands-on experience that may differ from or complement their clinical work.
Licenses, certifications & registrations
State licensing requirements vary for exercise physiology. For example, Louisiana specifies that exercise physiologists be licensed, but other states require licensure for performing exercise physiology duties in related occupations. Check with your state’s licensing agency.
Employers typically require exercise physiologists to have Basic Life Support (BLS) certification or Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certification, both of which include training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
Important qualities
Compassion. Exercise physiologists work with clients who may be in considerable pain or discomfort and must be patient and empathetic with them.
Communication skills. Exercise physiologists must be able to clearly convey information to clients, clients’ families, and other members of the medical team, including physicians.
Decision-making skills. Exercise physiologists must make informed assessments of their clients, whose health or livelihood may be affected by treatment options.
Detail oriented. Exercise physiologists must record specific, accurate information about their clients’ conditions, along with any progress or setbacks after beginning an exercise program.
Interpersonal skills. Exercise physiologists must be able to interact with clients and other members of the medical team.
Related occupations
How much do exercise physiologists make?
The national median wage is $59,460 a year, with the middle half earning between $49,620 and $67,230 (BLS OEWS May 2025).
Is exercise physiologists a good career?
On the Jobs.best index it scores 24 of 100 and ranks #224 of 825 occupations, weighing pay, growth, employment and openings. Employment is projected to change +9.5% through 2034.
What education do you need to become a exercise physiologist?
The typical entry-level education is bachelor's degree.
Where do exercise physiologists earn the most?
Among states, Washington pays the highest median ($81,310). Local pay for every state and metro is below.