Skip to main contentSkip to footer
LER.me
  • Live Data
My LER
LER.me
My LER
LER.me

Make All Learning Count.

Get Connected

  • What is a LER?
  • FAQs (opens in new tab)
  • Partner with Us
  • Visit EBSCOed (opens in new tab)

View our Policies

  • Accessibility (opens in new tab)
  • Standards (opens in new tab)
  • Terms of Use (opens in new tab)
  • Privacy Policy (opens in new tab)
  • Opt out (opens in new tab)

Get the app

  • Get it on Google Play
  • Download on the App Store

© 2026 All rights reserved.

Powered by EBSCOed

Skip to main contentSkip to footer
LER.me
  • Live Data
My LER
LER.me
My LER
  1. Occupations
  2. Exercise Physiologists

Exercise Physiologists

Assess, plan, or implement fitness programs that include exercise or physical activities such as those designed to improve cardiorespiratory function, body composition, muscular strength, muscular endurance, or flexibility.

SOC: 29-1128.00

Common Job Titles

  • Clinical Exercise Physiologist
  • Exercise Physiologist
  • Exercise Specialist
  • Lifestyle and Weight Management Consultant

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • KnowledgeDesign evidence-based fitness programs addressing cardiorespiratory endurance, strength, and flexibility goals tailored to diverse client populations with varying health conditions and fitness levels.
    Advanced
  • KnowledgeEvaluate cardiorespiratory function, body composition, and muscular fitness data using metabolic carts, bioelectric impedance analyzers, and dynamometers to inform individualized exercise prescriptions.
    Proficient
  • KnowledgeAssess patient medical history and physiological responses during exercise testing in clinical and fitness settings, collaborating with healthcare providers to ensure safety.
    Proficient
  • Hands-onOperate electrocardiography machines, cycle ergometers, and exercise treadmills during maximal and submaximal exercise testing following established protocols.
    Proficient
  • Hands-onDemonstrate mastery of blood pressure measurement, heart rate monitoring, and emergency response procedures while supervising clients performing moderate to vigorous physical activity.
    Proficient
  • MindsetIntegrate motivational interviewing techniques with behavior change theories to enhance client adherence to long-term fitness and lifestyle modification programs.
    Proficient
  • KnowledgeInterpret exercise stress test results and metabolic assessment data to identify cardiovascular risk factors and recommend appropriate exercise intensities.
    Proficient
  • MindsetEngage clients through active listening and empathetic communication when addressing health concerns, exercise barriers, and personal fitness goals.
    Developing
  • KnowledgeApply principles of exercise physiology and biomechanics when instructing proper exercise techniques and modifying movements for client safety.
    Developing
  • KnowledgeAnalyze client progress data and physiological adaptations using computer software to document outcomes and adjust program variables accordingly.
    Developing

Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Exercise Physiologists (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

8,110

Wage Distribution by Percentile

Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $40,930. 25th percentile: U.S. $48,650. 50th percentile: U.S. $58,160. 75th percentile: U.S. $65,430. 90th percentile: U.S. $79,830. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.

  • U.S.
MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$40,930
10% of workers earn the following or more$79,830
Workers on average earn$59,620

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Customer and Personal Service4.4/5
  • Medicine and Dentistry3.9/5
  • Therapy and Counseling3.8/5
  • Education and Training3.8/5
  • English Language3.7/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge

Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

  • MEDITECH software
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Office software
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Microsoft Word

Technology Skills

  • Email software
  • Web browser software

Tools & Equipment

  • Arm crank ergometers
  • Automated blood pressure measurement equipment
  • Automated external defibrillators AED
  • Bioelectric impedance analyzers
  • Cholesterol analyzers
  • Cycle ergometers
  • Desktop computers
  • Dual energy x ray absorptiometers
Tools & Technology: Tools & Equipment

Related Occupations

Occupations with similar skills and knowledge requirements

Most Similar

  • Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Physicians 29-1229.04
  • Exercise Trainers and Group Fitness Instructors 39-9031.00
  • Physical Therapists 29-1123.00
  • Physical Therapist Assistants 31-2021.00
  • Athletic Trainers 29-9091.00

Moderately Similar

  • Dietitians and Nutritionists 29-1031.00
  • Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians 29-2031.00
  • Sports Medicine Physicians 29-1229.06
  • Recreational Therapists 29-1125.00
  • Occupational Therapists 29-1122.00

Related

  • Cardiologists 29-1212.00
  • Respiratory Therapists 29-1126.00
  • Clinical Nurse Specialists 29-1141.04
  • Radiation Therapists 29-1124.00
  • Physical Therapist Aides 31-2022.00
  • Pediatric Surgeons 29-1243.00
  • Occupational Therapy Aides 31-2012.00
  • Neurologists 29-1217.00
  • Psychiatric Technicians 29-2053.00
  • Acute Care Nurses 29-1141.01

Related Programs

Education programs that prepare you for this occupation

  • Master's DegreeMaster of Science in KinesiologyIssuer: Troy University
  • Bachelor's DegreeExercise Physiology ProgramIssuer: Troy University
  • Master's DegreeKinesiology (MS)Issuer: University of Alabama in Huntsville
  • Bachelor's DegreeKinesiology (BS)Issuer: University of Alabama in Huntsville
  • Post-Baccalaureate CertificateClinical Exercise Physiology Graduate CertificateIssuer: University of Alabama at Birmingham
  • Master's DegreeKinesiology, MSIssuer: Alabama A&M University
  • Bachelor's DegreeKinesiology/Sport MngtIssuer: Auburn University at Montgomery
  • Master's DegreeKinesiology/PE (P-12)Issuer: Auburn University at Montgomery
  • Bachelor's DegreeKinesiology/PE (P-12)Issuer: Auburn University at Montgomery
  • Post-Baccalaureate CertificateMovement Skill Analysis — Graduate CertificateIssuer: Auburn University