Exercise Science Instructor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of health and fitness, the emphasis on Exercise Science Instructors has never been more intense.

As the understanding of human health progresses, the demand for knowledgeable individuals who can educate, guide, and inspire others towards physical well-being continues to rise.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an Exercise Science Instructor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to grasp the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the dynamics of exercise science instruction,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Exercise Science Instructor job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Exercise Science Instructor Duties and Responsibilities

Exercise Science Instructors apply their knowledge of exercise physiology, kinesiology, anatomy, and other related fields to provide instruction and training to students.

They may work in high schools, colleges, universities, or other educational institutions.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Planning, preparing and delivering courses and lessons in Exercise Science
• Designing and implementing an educational curriculum that aligns with state and federal standards
• Assessing student performance and providing feedback to improve their knowledge and skills
• Incorporating practical and hands-on learning experiences to enhance student understanding of exercise science principles
• Maintaining up-to-date subject knowledge and staying informed of recent research and developments in exercise science
• Promoting a positive and inclusive learning environment that supports student success
• Providing guidance and mentorship to students interested in careers in exercise science and related fields
• Participating in faculty meetings, committee work, and other institutional service activities
• Conducting or contributing to research in the field of exercise science
• Keeping accurate student assessment records and reporting progress to administration

 

Exercise Science Instructor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a highly knowledgeable and passionate Exercise Science Instructor to join our team.

The successful candidate will be responsible for providing instruction in the field of exercise science, including areas such as human anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, nutrition, and sports psychology.

The Exercise Science Instructor should be experienced in delivering course materials in a clear and engaging manner, developing course syllabi and lesson plans, and evaluating student performance.

 

Responsibilities

• Design and implement educational courses in exercise science
• Prepare and deliver lectures to undergraduate or graduate students on topics such as human anatomy, physiology, and nutrition
• Evaluate and grade students’ class work, assignments, and papers
• Initiate, facilitate, and moderate classroom discussions
• Stay up to date with the latest research and developments in the field of exercise science
• Conduct research in the field of exercise science and publish findings in scholarly journals
• Provide guidance and support to students
• Participate in school events and faculty meetings

 

Qualifications

• A Master’s degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, or a related field
• Experience teaching at the college or university level
• Strong knowledge of the principles and methods for curriculum design, teaching, and instruction for individuals and groups
• Excellent communication and organizational skills
• Proficiency in research and data analysis
• Demonstrated ability to work well with diverse student populations

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Exercise Science Instructor
• Work Environment: Classroom setting with some office hours required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of the Department.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $40,000 minimum to $75,000 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, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and any relevant certifications to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Exercise Science Instructor Do?

An Exercise Science Instructor is a professional educator specializing in the science of exercise and physical fitness.

They work in various institutions such as colleges, universities, health clubs, and fitness centers, providing education on the principles and applications of exercise science.

They also may work in the area of sports coaching, corporate wellness programs, or physical therapy clinics.

Their primary responsibilities include designing and delivering lessons on exercise science topics such as anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and wellness.

They develop lesson plans, conduct lectures, and lead laboratory sessions or practical demonstrations to help students understand the scientific principles behind exercise.

Exercise Science Instructors also create and grade examinations to measure students’ understanding and progress.

They provide feedback and guidance to students, helping them to improve their knowledge and skills in exercise science.

In addition, they also engage in research activities, staying up-to-date on the latest advancements in the field, and often contributing their own findings to the academic community.

Some Exercise Science Instructors may also provide consultancy services to athletes, sports teams, or fitness organizations, using their expertise to optimize training programs and improve performance.

In all aspects of their work, Exercise Science Instructors aim to promote the benefits of physical activity and encourage healthy lifestyles.

 

Exercise Science Instructor Qualifications and Skills

An Exercise Science Instructor should possess a comprehensive range of skills and qualifications to effectively teach and guide students, such as:

• In-depth knowledge of exercise science principles, including biomechanics, exercise physiology, sports nutrition and injury prevention.
• Ability to design, conduct and evaluate physical fitness programs tailored to individual needs and objectives.
• Strong communication skills to clearly explain complex physiological and biomechanical concepts to students.
• Interpersonal skills to connect with students and colleagues, fostering a positive and engaging learning environment.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and address challenges students may encounter in learning or implementing exercise science principles.
• Effective time management skills to cover all curriculum content efficiently and effectively.
• Experience with using fitness assessment tools and techniques to measure progress and adjust fitness programs as necessary.
• Critical thinking skills to analyze scientific research in the field and apply findings to teaching and practice.
• Patience and empathy to understand and address students’ difficulties and challenges in learning and application.

 

Exercise Science Instructor Experience Requirements

Exercise Science Instructors typically require a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, or a related field, and significant practical experience in the fitness and health industry.

Individuals starting their journey in this field often gain their initial experience through internships, part-time roles, or volunteer work in fitness or health-related settings such as gyms, physical therapy centers, or wellness clinics.

This initial phase of their career might involve roles such as Fitness Instructor, Health Coach, Personal Trainer, or Physical Therapy Assistant.

Candidates with 2 to 3 years of experience typically have a deeper understanding of exercise science concepts and are well-versed in implementing fitness programs, conducting health assessments, and providing fitness education.

They may have also gained some experience in the design and delivery of fitness and wellness programs.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in the field might have held positions such as Fitness Coordinator, Wellness Program Director, or Exercise Physiologist.

These roles often involve leadership or managerial responsibilities, signifying the candidate’s ability to supervise and lead a team, and their readiness for an Exercise Science Instructor role.

In addition, certifications from accredited organizations such as The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), or American Council on Exercise (ACE) are highly valued and can bolster a candidate’s practical experience.

Continuing education is also an important aspect of an Exercise Science Instructor’s career as it keeps them updated with the latest research, trends, and practices in the field.

Therefore, a candidate with a history of ongoing professional development is likely to be more prepared for the role.

 

Exercise Science Instructor Education and Training Requirements

To become an Exercise Science Instructor, a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, or a related field is typically required.

This provides foundational knowledge on the body’s response to exercise, biomechanics, anatomy, and physiology.

Beyond the bachelor’s degree, many employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree in Exercise Science or a related field.

These programs provide more advanced knowledge in areas such as exercise physiology, kinesiology, sports medicine, and exercise psychology.

Exercise Science Instructors should also have a strong background in teaching and education, often requiring a teaching certification.

This ensures that the instructor is qualified to plan and deliver effective curriculum and instruction.

In addition to education requirements, certification in CPR and First Aid are often required.

More specialized certifications, such as those from the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) or the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), are also highly desirable.

These certifications demonstrate the instructor’s practical skills and knowledge.

Continuing education is also important for Exercise Science Instructors, as it allows them to stay updated on the latest research and techniques in the field of exercise science.

Some instructors may even pursue a doctoral degree in the field for further advancement.

 

Exercise Science Instructor Salary Expectations

An Exercise Science Instructor can expect to earn an average salary of $55,000 (USD) per year.

However, the exact income can differ depending on factors such as level of experience, educational qualifications, and geographical location.

 

Exercise Science Instructor Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Exercise Science Instructor need?

An Exercise Science Instructor needs a strong understanding of human anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics.

They need to have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively convey complex scientific concepts to students.

They should also have a good understanding of teaching methods and curriculum design.

Additionally, they need to have a certain level of physical fitness to demonstrate exercises and techniques.

 

Do Exercise Science Instructors need a degree?

Yes, an Exercise Science Instructor usually needs a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, or a related field.

Many positions also require a master’s degree in these fields.

In addition, they may need to have professional certifications related to exercise science, such as from the American College of Sports Medicine or the National Strength and Conditioning Association.

 

What should you look for in an Exercise Science Instructor’s resume?

You should look for a strong educational background in exercise science or a related field, along with any relevant certifications.

Experience in teaching, especially in a college or university setting, is also crucial.

Additional experiences in exercise science, such as in sports coaching, personal training, physical therapy, or research, can also be beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Exercise Science Instructor?

A good Exercise Science Instructor is passionate about fitness and health, and uses this passion to inspire students.

They have a strong understanding of the science behind exercise and can effectively communicate these concepts to students.

They are patient, understanding, and have excellent problem-solving skills.

They should also be committed to continuous learning, as new research and techniques in exercise science are constantly emerging.

 

Is it difficult to hire an Exercise Science Instructor?

The difficulty in hiring an Exercise Science Instructor can vary depending on the specific requirements of the position and the market conditions.

If the position requires a high level of education and experience, or if there is a high demand for instructors in your area, it can be more challenging to find suitable candidates.

Providing competitive compensation, opportunities for professional development, and a positive work environment can help attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the dynamic world of being an exercise science instructor.

And guess what?

It’s not just about teaching exercises.

It’s about shaping the future of fitness, one workout at a time.

With our definitive exercise science instructor job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take your next step.

But why not go further?

Explore more with our job description generator. It’s your go-to tool for crafting precise job listings or perfecting your resume.

Remember:

Every exercise taught is a step towards a healthier future.

Let’s create that future. Together.

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