Personal fitness trainers are a great way to get in shape, lose weight, and improve your health. A personal fitness trainer will work with you to create a personal fitness plan that is tailored to your needs, schedule, and goals. Personal fitness trainers can help with weight loss, strength training, or any number of other things. You can also get certified as a personal fitness trainer and work on your own.
In this article, we will go into a fitness training career in-depth and explain the steps to becoming a personal fitness trainer. We will discuss the learning experience required to become a successful trainer or a successful fitness coach at various fitness centers. There is more than one study program to choose from and we will cover the various options.
Note: Earning your personal training certificate is not going to meet the requirements to become an athletic trainer. Checkout athletic trainer degree programs if you are interested in this career.
Successful completion of a physical education program can lead to a successful fitness career in health while also helping you to live a healthier life.
What is Personal Fitness Training?
Personal fitness training is a process whereby an individual hires a certified professional to help them achieve their specific fitness goals. A personal trainer will develop an exercise and nutrition plan tailored to the client’s needs and abilities, which can include weight loss, muscle building, or improving overall fitness levels such as strength, flexibility, or mobility.
A personal trainer will use their skills and experience to create a personalized nutrition plan that is suited to the individual’s needs and abilities. This plan will help the individual to reach their fitness goals in a safe and effective manner. Your client base will vary, some clients will need to safely lose weight while others need to safely gain weight. And believe it or not some clients will need to maintain their weight. Each client will have unique goals that the trainer will be able to tailor a plan to.
Fitness trainers also create personalized exercise programs for their clients. These programs are based on the client’s fitness level, goals, and preferences. In addition to working with individual clients, fitness trainers may also work with groups or teach classes. Some fitness trainers also work with athletes to help them improve their performance.
Fitness trainers can help people improve their strength, flexibility, and mobility, and change their weight and body shape. They can also help people with chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis.
Most fitness trainers work in gyms or other fitness facilities. Some may also work in corporate wellness programs, hospitals, or physical rehabilitation centers. Some fitness trainers are self-employed and work out of their homes.
Professionals are also available to provide advice on what equipment or resources to use while they’re working out. They may also be able to offer tips on how to improve form or breathing while working out. Personal fitness trainers typically work with clients one-on-one, but they may also give group classes. Some personal fitness trainers travel to their client’s homes or places of business, while others work in a gym or other exercise facility.
Most personal fitness trainers are certified through a professional organization, such as the National Strength and Conditioning Association or the American Council on Exercise. Although certification is not required in all states, it may be required by some employers. Most personal fitness trainer certificate programs include coursework in exercise science and related topics, as well as a practicum component. Some colleges and universities offer bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in exercise science or a related field, which may be beneficial for those interested in advanced careers in the fitness industry.
The job outlook for personal fitness trainers is expected to grow much faster than average over the next decade. This growth is due, in part, to an increasing interest in health and fitness. As people live longer and try to maintain an active lifestyle, the need for personal fitness trainers is expected to continue to rise. In addition, as the baby-boom generation ages, there will be a greater need for fitness trainers who specialize in working with older adults. Employment of personal fitness trainers is expected to grow 24 percent from 2010 to 2020.
If you are asking “How Do I Become a Personal Fitness Trainer?” then keep reading to find out the steps you need to take to get started and complete your personal training certification to begin working as a personal fitness trainer.
How to Become a Personal Fitness Trainer
If you have a passion for fitness and want to help others improve their physical well-being, becoming a personal fitness trainer may be the right career path for you.
In order to become a certified personal trainer, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
To become a certified personal fitness trainer, you will need to obtain your fitness trainer certificate. There are many different ways to do this, but most involve completing an accredited training program that covers scientific principles and offers some practical experience as well. You will learn about effective methods of training, client communication skills, demand skills, model exercise programs, take practice tests and prepare for certification exam day.
Here is a list of accredited training programs that you can consider to become a personal fitness trainer:
ACE: American Council on Exercise
The American Council on Exercise is a respected authority on physical activity and health. ACE provides science-based recommendations to help people live their most fit lives. They also offer certifications for fitness professionals. The American Council on Exercise is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting active lifestyles and healthy living. The Council provides educational resources, certifies fitness professionals, and conducts research on exercise and health. Their work helps people of all ages and abilities to live their best lives through physical activity.
NASM: National Academy of Sports Medicine
The National Academy of Sports Medicine is a respected organization that provides certification and continuing education for fitness professionals. They offer a wide variety of courses and programs that are designed to help individuals improve their health and fitness. Its mission is to promote the health and well-being of athletes of all levels, from professional to recreational.
NSCA: National Strength and Conditioning Association
The National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) is a strength and conditioning organization that sets the standard for the profession. With thousands of members worldwide, the NSCA is committed to improving the Strength and Conditioning industry. The NSCA provides educational resources, certifications, balance horse515 standards, events, and research opportunities for Strength and Conditioning coaches at all levels.
The NSCA provides its members with cutting-edge resources in order to help them develop as coaches and enhance their understanding of strength and conditioning principles. In addition, the NSCA provides a forum for sharing information and exchanging ideas among its members.
ACSM: American College of Sports Medicine
Founded in 1954, the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) is the largest sports medicine and exercise science organization in the world. ACSM promotes and integrates scientific research, education, and practical applications of sports medicine and exercise science to maintain and enhance physical performance, fitness, health, and quality of life.
CI: Cooper Institute
The Cooper Institute is a renowned institution dedicated to promoting health and fitness. It was founded in 1887 by Dr. Edward Cooper and has remained at the forefront of research and education in these areas ever since. Today, the Cooper Institute continues to inspire people of all ages to lead healthier and more active lives.
NCSF: National Council on Strength & Fitness
The National Council on Strength & Fitness provides advice and guidance on how to lead a healthy and active lifestyle. They also promote physical activity and fitness among all age groups. The National Council on Strength & Fitness is an organization that promotes health and fitness through education and research.
The Council provides resources for both fitness professionals and consumers alike. The National Council on Strength & Fitness is committed to helping people live healthier lifestyles.
AFAA: Athletics and Fitness Association of America
The Athletics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA) is a national nonprofit organization that promotes physical activity and health. AFAA provides education, certification, and research opportunities in the areas of exercise science and sports medicine. AFAA also represents the interests of athletes, fitness professionals, and other health and wellness advocates.
NETA: National Exercise Trainers Association
Established in 1977 as a non-profit organization, the National Exercise Trainers Association (NETA) is the leading professional organization for fitness educators. NETA provides educational opportunities, resources, and networking for exercise professionals around the world.
The National Exercise Trainers Association (NETA) is a not-for-profit organization that provides education, certification, and professional resources for fitness professionals. NETA’s rigorous certification standards are respected by the fitness industry and lead to improved client results. NETA also offers professional resources such as job placement assistance and continuing education opportunities.
NETA’s certification standards are some of the most rigorous in the fitness industry. As a result, NETA-certified professionals are highly respected by their peers and often produce better results with their clients.
ISSA: International Sports Sciences Association
The International Sports Sciences Association is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to promoting sports science research and education worldwide. The organization was founded in 1954, and they have helped support many different studies over the years. Some of the areas that they have focused on include health and fitness, as well as nutrition and sports performance.
The International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) is a leading global Fitness Organization. With a mission to continuously educate, certify and support fitness professionals, the ISSA offers a variety of online and hands-on courses that are developed and taught by world-renowned experts in the field.
Related Reading: How Long Does it Take to Become a Personal Trainer?
What are the Education Requirements for Becoming a Personal Fitness Trainer?
Each organization has its own specific requirements for its fitness programs, but most will require you to have a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as pass a written exam and practical skills test. Once you have completed an accredited program and passed the required exams, you will be a certified personal fitness trainer.
You will also need to complete a personal trainer certification program that is accredited by an organization such as the National Strength and Conditioning Association or the American Council on Exercise. These programs typically take between four and six weeks to complete.
The program will provide:
- educational materials
- training materials
- study materials
To become a personal fitness trainer, you will need to complete an accredited program or course of study. Depending on the program you choose, this may include courses in anatomy and physiology, nutrition, exercise science, kinesiology, biomechanics, and other related topics. You may also need to complete a practical component such as an internship or apprenticeship in order to gain hands-on experience working with clients. Additionally, most states require personal trainers to be licensed or certified by an approved organization before they can practice professionally. Once you have completed all of these requirements, you will be ready to start your career as a personal fitness trainer!
Accredited Exams for Personal Fitness Training
Are you interested in becoming a personal fitness trainer? If so, you’ll need to get certified by taking an exam. Exam candidates for a personal fitness training certificate must demonstrate their knowledge of anatomy, physiology, nutrition, and exercise science. With the right education and training, you can be on your way to helping others achieve their fitness goals in no time.
Upon completion of an accredited program, you will need to pass a written exam and practical skills test in order to become certified. A testing center will be provided and the passing score will vary depending on the exam you take. Once you are certified, you will be able to work as a personal trainer.
To become certified as a personal fitness trainer, you must pass an exam administered by a recognized certifying organization and has exam eligibility requirements.
To register for a personal fitness training certificate exam, visit the website of the certifying organization to find out more information about exam requirements and exam registration procedures.
Those interested in becoming a personal fitness trainer can take a National Certification Exam to receive their certification and some are offered as online exams while others provide many exam locations.
Since the various exams have fees it is best to spend sufficient hours of study time in quality study programs and ace your first exam attempt to avoid extra costs.
Job Settings for Personal Fitness Trainers
There are many different job settings for personal fitness trainers to train clients, including gyms, health clubs, private studios, hospitals, corporate wellness programs, and even people’s homes. You may also choose to work as an independent contractor, renting space from a gym or studio.
As a personal fitness trainer, you will be responsible for designing and implementing workout programs that are tailored to your client’s individual needs and goals. You will also need to motivate your clients and help them stay on track.
Most personal fitness trainers work full-time, although some may work part-time or evenings and weekends to accommodate their clients’ schedules.
The job outlook for personal fitness trainers is good, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 13% growth in employment from 2016 to 2026. This growth is faster than the average for all occupations.
As a personal fitness trainer, you can expect to earn a median annual salary of $39,210. The top 25% of trainers earned an annual salary of $62,610 or more, while the bottom 25% earned an annual salary of $22,640 or less.
You don’t have to be an elite trainer to enjoy a rewarding and successful career in training. Many types of people want many types of personal training sessions.
Benefits of a Fitness Career
A career in fitness comes with a number of benefits, chief among them the ability to help people achieve their health and fitness goals. As a personal trainer, you will be able to work with clients one-on-one to help them reach their potential. In addition, you will have the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, from gyms and health clubs to corporate wellness programs and private studios.
Another benefit of a career in fitness is the potential for income growth. Personal trainers of athletes and private personal trainers make very competitive salaries. Personal trainers work with athletes individually and often have long hours during the day but they are paid extremely well into the 6-figure range.
Below are the primary benefits of working as a fitness trainer:
- Working as a personal trainer is a sustainable career
- It can offer a good income
- You can choose your own hours
- It is a flexible career path
As you can see, working as a personal trainer is a great career path for independent folks who want to have flexibility and control over their careers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a career as a personal fitness trainer can be very rewarding and offers many benefits. With the right education and training, you can become certified and start helping others reach their fitness goals. If you’re ready to take the next step, check out some personal fitness trainer certification programs today to find one that fits your needs.
So, if you’re interested in a career as a personal fitness trainer, now is a great time to get started! Just be sure to do your research and choose a reputable program to get your fitness trainer certificate. With the right education and training, you can be on your way to helping others achieve their fitness goals in no time!
Do you have what it takes to be a personal fitness trainer? Share your thoughts in the comments below! And if you’re already a certified fitness trainer, we’d love to hear about your experience in the field.
Now that you know what it takes to become a personal fitness trainer, are you ready to take the next step? If so, check out some personal fitness trainer certification programs today. With our tools you can compare programs that have comprehensive curriculums and experienced instructors, and you’ll be on your way to a rewarding career in no time. Just enter your zip code to view fitness training certificate programs near you.
