Exercise Physiologist Salary in 2025

In 2025, the demand for exercise physiologists continues to rise due to increasing awareness of preventative health care and chronic disease management. This growth directly influences salary trends, job opportunities, and professional expectations in the field. If you’re considering a career as an exercise physiologist or are already in the field and wondering what your future earning potential could be, this guide breaks it all down.

🧾 What Is the Average Exercise Physiologist Salary in 2025?

As of 2025, the average salary for an exercise physiologist in the United States is approximately $61,500 per year, according to aggregated data from HR reports and health industry surveys. However, this figure can vary significantly based on factors such as location, education, years of experience, and workplace setting.

Salary Ranges:

Entry-Level (0-2 years): $48,000 – $56,000
Mid-Level (3-7 years): $58,000 – $70,000
Senior-Level (8+ years): $72,000 – $90,000+
Specialists (e.g., cardiac rehab, performance coaching): Can exceed $95,000+

🎓 Factors That Influence Salary

Several key factors can significantly affect an exercise physiologist’s salary in 2025:

1. Experience Level

Those with over a decade in the field often earn 20–30% more than entry-level professionals.
Senior roles such as Lead Clinical Exercise Physiologist or Wellness Program Director can push salaries above $90,000.

2. Education & Certifications

A Master’s degree or Ph.D. may lead to higher-paying positions in clinical or academic settings.
Certifications like the ACSM-CEP (Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist) or NSCA-CSCS (Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist) can boost employability and pay.

3. Industry & Employer

Hospitals and rehabilitation centers typically pay more than fitness clubs or wellness centers.
Government roles (VA, military programs) may offer stable, higher salaries plus federal benefits.

4. Geographic Location

States like California, New York, and Massachusetts tend to offer higher wages due to cost of living and demand.
Rural or underserved areas may pay less, but could offer signing bonuses or loan forgiveness programs.

💼 Related Career Comparison

Here’s how the exercise physiologist salary compares to similar health-related roles in 2025:

Role	Average Salary
Exercise Physiologist	$61,500
Physical Therapist Assistant	$58,000
Occupational Therapist	$84,000
Personal Trainer (Elite Level)	$50,000–$100,000
Peloton Instructor (Top Tier)	$100,000–$500,000+
LAT/Pen Test Technician	$45,000–$60,000
Auxano Senior Lead Navigator	$95,000–$115,000

Note: High-profile roles like Peloton instructors earn significantly more, influenced by brand exposure and media presence.

📈 Job Outlook for Exercise Physiologists

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 10% job growth for exercise physiologists from 2024 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations. Several factors drive this growth:

Increased public interest in fitness and preventive health
Rising rates of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease
Expansion of corporate wellness programs
Integration of exercise science in elder care and rehabilitation

🧠 Certifications That Boost Salary

Investing in the right certification can increase your earning potential and job prospects:

ACSM-CEP – Highly valued in clinical roles
NSCA-CSCS – Ideal for sports performance careers
ACSM-RCEP – Advanced-level certification with higher earning potential
CPR/AED and BLS Certification – Often required by employers

💡 Key Takeaways

Average salary in 2025: ~$61,500, with potential to exceed $90,000 in senior roles.
Salary is influenced by education, experience, certifications, and location.
Job growth remains strong, especially in clinical and eldercare sectors.
Certifications can significantly enhance income and open up specialized opportunities.

Choosing a career as an exercise physiologist in 2025 offers not only a solid salary but also the chance to make a positive impact on people’s health. With the right combination of education, certifications, and experience, you can build a rewarding and financially stable career in this growing field.