Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the ever-evolving world of healthcare, the role of a Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologist has become increasingly crucial.

As the importance of cardiac rehabilitation becomes more apparent, there is a growing demand for trained professionals who can create, implement, and monitor cardiac rehabilitation programs.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the requirements of this role,
• A hiring manager seeking to sketch out the ideal candidate profile,
• Or simply curious about the ins and outs of cardiac rehabilitation exercise physiology,

You’ve landed at the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologist job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologist Duties and Responsibilities

Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologists are responsible for assessing, designing, and implementing exercise programs for patients with heart diseases or disorders.

They help patients improve their cardiovascular fitness, increase muscular strength, and promote overall health and wellbeing.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Perform initial patient assessments to establish health status and baseline physical abilities
• Design individualized exercise programs tailored to the patient’s needs and capabilities
• Monitor and evaluate patient progress, adjusting exercise programs as necessary
• Supervise and lead group exercise sessions in a cardiac rehabilitation setting
• Educate patients on the benefits of regular physical activity and encourage lifestyle modifications
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary team members, including doctors and nurses, to optimize patient care
• Administer stress tests and interpret results to assess cardiovascular function
• Ensure the safety of patients during exercise sessions, promptly responding to any emergencies
• Document patient progress and maintain accurate medical records
• Provide emotional support and motivation to help patients achieve their health and fitness goals

 

Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologist to join our team.

Your role will be to provide a comprehensive exercise-based rehabilitation program for patients with cardiovascular diseases.

Responsibilities include conducting detailed cardiovascular assessments, designing individualized exercise plans, and monitoring patients’ progress throughout their rehabilitation.

Our ideal candidate has a strong understanding of the physiological and psychological effects of exercise on patients with heart disease, as well as a compassionate and patient-centered approach to care.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed assessments of cardiovascular fitness in patients with heart disease.
• Design and implement tailored exercise plans to improve patients’ cardiovascular health and overall well-being.
• Monitor patients during exercise sessions to ensure safety and effectiveness of the program.
• Provide education and counseling to patients about heart-healthy lifestyle modifications.
• Work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team to develop comprehensive care plans.
• Evaluate patients’ progress and adjust treatment plans as necessary.
• Stay updated with the latest research and advancements in cardiovascular rehabilitation.
• Maintain accurate and detailed patient records.

 

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Physiology or related field.
• Experience in cardiac rehabilitation or a related clinical setting is preferred.
• Current certification as a Clinical Exercise Physiologist (CEP) or Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist (RCEP) from the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM).
• Strong understanding of the physiological and psychological effects of exercise on patients with heart disease.
• Excellent patient management and communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.

 

Benefits

• 401(k) retirement plan
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Wellness program

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologist
• Work Environment: Clinical setting. Some weekend and evening hours may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Cardiac Rehabilitation.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $55,000 minimum to $85,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologist Do?

Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologists are specialized healthcare professionals who work primarily with patients recovering from cardiovascular diseases and surgeries.

They design, implement, and monitor exercise programs tailored to the individual needs and capabilities of these patients.

The goal of these programs is to improve cardiovascular function, increase patient endurance, and enhance overall quality of life.

A significant part of their job involves assessing a patient’s physical condition, taking into consideration their medical history and any specific heart conditions.

They conduct tests such as EKGs, stress tests, and cardiopulmonary function tests to monitor the patient’s heart function during physical activity.

They also provide education to patients about heart-healthy lifestyle changes, including dietary recommendations and stress management techniques.

Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologists work closely with a team of healthcare professionals, including cardiologists and nurses, to ensure that the exercise program is safe and effective for the patient.

They continuously monitor and adjust the program as needed based on the patient’s progress and feedback.

Lastly, they also play a role in the prevention of further heart problems by providing guidance on physical activity and lifestyle changes that promote cardiovascular health.

 

Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologist Qualifications and Skills

A Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologist should possess a combination of medical knowledge, technical skills, and interpersonal abilities, such as:

• Strong understanding of cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases and their impact on the body, as well as how exercise can be used as a part of rehabilitation.
• Ability to devise, implement, and adjust exercise plans tailored to each patient’s unique health condition and recovery goals.
• Excellent observation skills to monitor patients’ progress and response to exercise, adjusting the regimen as necessary.
• High-level interpersonal skills to establish trust and rapport with patients, ensuring they feel comfortable and motivated during their rehabilitation process.
• Strong communication skills to clearly explain exercise plans, health conditions, and progress updates to patients and their families, as well as to collaborate effectively with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals.
• Proficiency in using medical equipment and technology to assess patients’ health status and monitor their response to the exercise regimen.
• Problem-solving abilities to identify potential issues or setbacks in a patient’s recovery and adjust the treatment plan accordingly.
• Knowledge of emergency medical procedures and ability to respond promptly and effectively during a medical emergency.

 

Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologist Experience Requirements

Entry-level Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologists may have 1 to 2 years of clinical experience, often gained through internships or part-time roles in cardiac rehabilitation clinics or hospitals.

These professionals may also gain experience by working in roles such as Clinical Exercise Physiologist, Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist, or other healthcare-related roles.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience generally have honed their technical skills and understanding in cardiac rehabilitation, exercise science, and patient care.

They may also have advanced skills in using medical equipment and software used for cardiac testing and exercise prescription.

For those with more than 5 years of experience, they may have gained leadership experience in their field and could be ready for a senior or supervisory role.

They may also have a comprehensive understanding of cardiac pathophysiology, medications, and exercise prescription for patients with cardiovascular disease.

Regardless of experience level, all Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologists should have up-to-date BLS and ACLS certifications, and should maintain their professional certification by obtaining continuing education units.

 

Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologist Education and Training Requirements

To become a Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologist, individuals typically need a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology, or a related field.

Fundamental courses often include Anatomy, Physiology, Biomechanics, and Exercise Prescription.

A deep understanding of the cardiovascular system and its response to exercise is also essential.

In addition to a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree in Exercise Physiology or a related discipline is often preferred.

This advanced degree provides a more in-depth study of cardiac rehabilitation and helps to develop research and leadership skills.

It is also common for Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologists to be certified.

The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) offers a Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (CEP) credential that is widely recognized and respected in the field.

To qualify for this certification, individuals must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science, complete a certain number of clinical hours, and pass an examination.

Continued professional development is also important in this role due to the evolving nature of cardiac rehabilitation.

Regularly attending workshops, seminars and conferences can help Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologists keep up with the latest practices and guidelines.

In addition to education and training, this role requires good communication skills, as these professionals often interact with patients and healthcare teams.

They also need to be patient, compassionate, and able to motivate patients to follow their rehabilitation program.

 

Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologist Salary Expectations

A Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologist can expect to earn an average salary of $49,170 (USD) per year.

This figure can fluctuate depending on factors such as years of experience, level of education, and the location of the job.

 

Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologist need?

Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologists need strong analytical skills to interpret patients’ health data accurately.

They should possess excellent communication skills to explain complex medical procedures to patients and their families.

These professionals should also have good motivational skills to encourage patients to follow their exercise and recovery plans.

In addition, they should have a deep understanding of cardiac physiology and the impacts of exercise on it.

 

Do Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologists need a degree?

Yes, Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologists typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in exercise physiology, kinesiology, or a related field.

Many positions also require a master’s degree and some relevant work experience.

In addition, these professionals often need to be certified by a recognized organization, such as the American College of Sports Medicine.

 

What should you look for in a Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologist resume?

When reviewing a resume for this role, you should look for a solid educational background in a relevant field and certification from a recognized body.

Check for experience in cardiac rehabilitation settings, as this demonstrates the candidate’s ability to apply their knowledge in a practical setting.

It’s also crucial to look for evidence of the soft skills that are important for this role, such as communication, problem-solving, and motivational skills.

 

What qualities make a good Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologist?

A good Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologist should be compassionate and patient, as they will be working with individuals who are in recovery and may be dealing with physical and emotional challenges.

They should be detail-oriented to accurately monitor and interpret health data.

These professionals should also be good problem solvers, capable of adapting exercise plans to meet each patient’s unique needs and limitations.

Additionally, they should have a good understanding of cardiac anatomy and physiology, and the impact of exercise on these systems.

 

Is it challenging to hire a Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologist?

The hiring process can be challenging due to the specialized skills and qualifications required for the role.

A shortage of qualified candidates and the specific demands of the job can make recruitment more difficult.

Offering competitive salaries, comprehensive training programs, and opportunities for professional development can help attract and retain quality candidates.

 

Conclusion

And that’s a wrap.

Today, we’ve shed some light on what it truly means to be a Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologist.

And guess what?

It’s not just about helping patients regain their physical abilities.

It’s about rebuilding lives, one heartbeat at a time.

With our comprehensive Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologist job description template and real-world examples, you’re well-prepared to leap forward.

But why limit yourself?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to crafting meticulous job listings or refining your resume to brilliance.

Remember:

Every heartbeat is a step towards a healthier future.

Let’s build that future. Together.

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