Exercise Associate

JOB DESCRIPTION

The position description is a guide to the critical duties and essential functions of the job, not an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, qualifications, physical demands, and work environment conditions. Position descriptions are reviewed and revised to meet the changing needs of the organization.

TITLE: Exercise Associate

JOB OVERVIEW: Exercise Associate supports the delivery of medical exercise programming by implementing exercise plans developed by an Exercise Specialist or other qualified provider. This role maintains a consistent presence within the department to reinforce adherence, collect objective health data, support accountability, and enhance member/patient engagement. The Associate does not independently prescribe or modify exercise programs and escalates clinical concerns appropriately.

DEPARTMENT: Lifestyle Medicine Center/Outpatient Rehabilitation Services

WORK HOURS: Monday through Friday; variable hours

REPORTS TO: Manager Lifestyle Medicine/Outpatient Therapy Services

PREREQUISITES:

High school diploma or equivalent required.

Minimum 2 years of experience and/or education in an exercise-related field required.

Experience in healthcare, wellness, or customer service preferred.

Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification through American Heart Association or Red Cross required within 60 days of hire.

Training and experience in performing health biometric measurements is preferred.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Strong communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with teams and program members.

Ability to work independently and within a multidisciplinary team.

Proficiency in documentation and electronic systems.

Knowledge and ability to demonstrate body mechanics, functional movement, and exercises.

UNIQUE PHYSICAL/MENTAL DEMANDS, ENVIRONMENTAL AND WORKING CONDITIONS: Occasionally required to assist transfers of patients weighing in excess of 200 lbs and move exercise equipment. Must demonstrate and cue exercises and remain on feet for extended periods.

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:

Generic Job Functions: See Generic Job Description for Clinical Support Partner

Essential Responsibilities and Competencies:

Implement exercise programs developed by Exercise Specialist or Physical/Occupational Therapist.

Collect objective data including VO2max, strength testing, blood pressure, body composition, and grip strength.

Reinforce adherence and support member accountability.

Escalate abnormal findings to appropriate clinical staff.

Maintain documentation according to program standards.

Ensure facility cleanliness and equipment safety.

Participate in community outreach and HealthyCare sessions.

Support Lifestyle Medicine/Outpatient Therapy pathways by reinforcing prescribed plans and assisting with bridge and launch sessions.

Understand how nutrition, sleep, stress, substance use, and relationships influence success.

Communicate patient information to Exercise Specialist/Therapist to support appropriate plan modification.

Document continuation or discharge accurately and timely.

Assist with quality improvement initiatives and data collection related to program performance.

Understand and value research in critically looking at individual patient care and program development and process or outcome improvement. Share this with others and show evidence of growth in practice area.

Provide reinforcement education aligned with established exercise prescriptions and lifestyle goals.

Ensure the cleanliness and hygiene of the facility by performing routine cleaning tasks, including sanitizing equipment and maintaining a tidy environment conducive to patient well-being.

Monitor the condition of equipment in the facility and promptly escalate any issues or maintenance needs to the appropriate personnel, ensuring optimal functionality and safety.

Contact departments such as EVS, Biome