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How to become a Fitness Trainer?
Share your journey & guide aspiring Fitness Trainers on their path.
Note: We've seen a lot of interest in this career, so we're looking for guidance from our community of professionals.
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3 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1360
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Personal training is one of the most rewarding professions you can have. You get to improve people's lives while getting paid to do what you love. If you are looking to work with clients one-on-one, developing exercise programs to help people achieve their fitness goals, personal training is for you.
CHOOSE YOUR CERTIFICATION
Not all certifications are created equal. Don't be fooled. When researching certifications, always verify that the certification is accredited. Accreditation shows that you've met the highest standards and are qualified to work as a professional. This will give you the respect you deserve and allow you to stand out when you're ready to start training.
• AMERICAN COLLEGE OF SPORTS
MEDICINE (ACSM): $525/$650
• AMERICAN COUNCIL ON EXERCISE (ACE): A one-time payment ranging from $675/$975
• INTERNATIONAL SPORTS SCIENCE ASSOCIATIONS (ISSA): A one-time payment
of $1,000
• NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SPORTS
MEDICINE (NASM): A one-time payment ranging from $900 to $2,400
• NATIONAL STRENGTH AND
CONDITIONING ASSOCIATION (NSCA): No set certification coursework, exam costs $435
Becoming a certified personal trainer requires passing a personal training certification exam. The examination process can be challenging, but there are steps you can take to increase your chances of success. One way to prepare is by researching the specific requirements and expectations of the certification program you are interested in, including understanding the coursework, hands-on experience, and exam format. Another important step is to study relevant materials such as textbooks, online courses, and practice exams. Doing so will help increase your knowledge and familiarity with the exam material. Gaining hands-on experience working with clients and implementing training programs can be beneficial. Consider volunteering at a gym or fitness center to gain practical experience.
Networking with other professionals will be helpful. Joining professional organizations, attending conferences, and connecting with other personal trainers will provide valuable insights and advice on the certification process.
CHOOSE YOUR CERTIFICATION
Not all certifications are created equal. Don't be fooled. When researching certifications, always verify that the certification is accredited. Accreditation shows that you've met the highest standards and are qualified to work as a professional. This will give you the respect you deserve and allow you to stand out when you're ready to start training.
• AMERICAN COLLEGE OF SPORTS
MEDICINE (ACSM): $525/$650
• AMERICAN COUNCIL ON EXERCISE (ACE): A one-time payment ranging from $675/$975
• INTERNATIONAL SPORTS SCIENCE ASSOCIATIONS (ISSA): A one-time payment
of $1,000
• NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SPORTS
MEDICINE (NASM): A one-time payment ranging from $900 to $2,400
• NATIONAL STRENGTH AND
CONDITIONING ASSOCIATION (NSCA): No set certification coursework, exam costs $435
Becoming a certified personal trainer requires passing a personal training certification exam. The examination process can be challenging, but there are steps you can take to increase your chances of success. One way to prepare is by researching the specific requirements and expectations of the certification program you are interested in, including understanding the coursework, hands-on experience, and exam format. Another important step is to study relevant materials such as textbooks, online courses, and practice exams. Doing so will help increase your knowledge and familiarity with the exam material. Gaining hands-on experience working with clients and implementing training programs can be beneficial. Consider volunteering at a gym or fitness center to gain practical experience.
Networking with other professionals will be helpful. Joining professional organizations, attending conferences, and connecting with other personal trainers will provide valuable insights and advice on the certification process.
Kim Arskii
Social Media Analyst
83
Answers
St. Augustine, Florida
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Becoming a fitness trainer can be an exciting and rewarding career choice! While I don't have personal experience as a fitness trainer myself, I can certainly provide some guidance based on what I've learned from others.
First, it's important to have a strong passion for fitness and helping others achieve their health goals. Many fitness trainers start by obtaining a certification from a recognized organization, such as the American Council on Exercise (ACE), National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), or the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). These certifications typically require studying and passing an exam.
In addition to certification, gaining practical experience is crucial. Consider working or volunteering at a gym, fitness center, or with a personal trainer to learn hands-on skills, observe different training techniques, and build a network within the industry.
Continued education is also important to stay up-to-date with the latest fitness trends and research. Attend workshops, conferences, and seminars to expand your knowledge and skills.
Building a client base can be challenging but essential. Utilize social media platforms and create a professional website to showcase your expertise and attract potential clients. Networking with other fitness professionals and offering trial sessions or discounted rates can also help you gain clients.
Remember, being a fitness trainer requires not only knowledge and skills but also excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Building strong relationships with clients and understanding their individual needs is key to helping them achieve their fitness goals.
First, it's important to have a strong passion for fitness and helping others achieve their health goals. Many fitness trainers start by obtaining a certification from a recognized organization, such as the American Council on Exercise (ACE), National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), or the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). These certifications typically require studying and passing an exam.
In addition to certification, gaining practical experience is crucial. Consider working or volunteering at a gym, fitness center, or with a personal trainer to learn hands-on skills, observe different training techniques, and build a network within the industry.
Continued education is also important to stay up-to-date with the latest fitness trends and research. Attend workshops, conferences, and seminars to expand your knowledge and skills.
Building a client base can be challenging but essential. Utilize social media platforms and create a professional website to showcase your expertise and attract potential clients. Networking with other fitness professionals and offering trial sessions or discounted rates can also help you gain clients.
Remember, being a fitness trainer requires not only knowledge and skills but also excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Building strong relationships with clients and understanding their individual needs is key to helping them achieve their fitness goals.
Kari Miglaw
Project Management
1
Answer
Naples, Florida
Updated
Kari’s Answer
Career Advice for Aspiring Fitness Instructors:
1. Just get started: Begin by taking the necessary steps to become a fitness instructor. Obtain the required certifications and qualifications, such as a group fitness certification or specialized training in a specific format.
2. Finding your voice: It may take some time to discover the type of class that resonates with you and where you feel most comfortable. Experiment with different formats like yoga, spin, aqua, or barre, and see which ones you enjoy teaching the most.
3. Building confidence: The first few classes might be challenging, but don't let that discourage you. Building confidence takes time and practice. Keep pushing forward, and with each class, you will become more self-assured and skilled.
4. Side-gig potential: Being a fitness instructor can be a great side-gig alongside a traditional job. It allows you to escape your computer screen and interact with people, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle. This can be a refreshing change of pace from a desk job.
5. Explore various class types: Obtaining certifications in multiple formats can be beneficial. Teaching a variety of classes not only expands your skill set but also opens up more opportunities for employment. It's always nice to have the flexibility to teach different types of classes.
6. Substitute teaching: Starting out as a substitute instructor is an excellent way to gain practice and experience. Look for opportunities to fill in for other instructors at gyms, studios, or community centers. This will help you refine your teaching style and develop your confidence.
7. Lifelong career: Fitness instructing can be a fulfilling and sustainable career path. As you gain experience and establish a reputation, you will have the opportunity to grow and advance in the field. Continually seek professional development opportunities to stay current with fitness trends and maintain your skills.
8. Teaching at major hotels: Consider reaching out to major hotels to inquire about fitness instruction opportunities. Many hotels offer perks to their employees, including room discounts. Teaching just a few classes a month can often qualify you for these benefits, making it a win-win situation.
Remember, embarking on a career as a fitness instructor requires dedication, continuous learning, and a passion for helping others achieve their fitness goals. Stay motivated, be open to new experiences, and enjoy the journey as you inspire and empower others through fitness.
1. Just get started: Begin by taking the necessary steps to become a fitness instructor. Obtain the required certifications and qualifications, such as a group fitness certification or specialized training in a specific format.
2. Finding your voice: It may take some time to discover the type of class that resonates with you and where you feel most comfortable. Experiment with different formats like yoga, spin, aqua, or barre, and see which ones you enjoy teaching the most.
3. Building confidence: The first few classes might be challenging, but don't let that discourage you. Building confidence takes time and practice. Keep pushing forward, and with each class, you will become more self-assured and skilled.
4. Side-gig potential: Being a fitness instructor can be a great side-gig alongside a traditional job. It allows you to escape your computer screen and interact with people, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle. This can be a refreshing change of pace from a desk job.
5. Explore various class types: Obtaining certifications in multiple formats can be beneficial. Teaching a variety of classes not only expands your skill set but also opens up more opportunities for employment. It's always nice to have the flexibility to teach different types of classes.
6. Substitute teaching: Starting out as a substitute instructor is an excellent way to gain practice and experience. Look for opportunities to fill in for other instructors at gyms, studios, or community centers. This will help you refine your teaching style and develop your confidence.
7. Lifelong career: Fitness instructing can be a fulfilling and sustainable career path. As you gain experience and establish a reputation, you will have the opportunity to grow and advance in the field. Continually seek professional development opportunities to stay current with fitness trends and maintain your skills.
8. Teaching at major hotels: Consider reaching out to major hotels to inquire about fitness instruction opportunities. Many hotels offer perks to their employees, including room discounts. Teaching just a few classes a month can often qualify you for these benefits, making it a win-win situation.
Remember, embarking on a career as a fitness instructor requires dedication, continuous learning, and a passion for helping others achieve their fitness goals. Stay motivated, be open to new experiences, and enjoy the journey as you inspire and empower others through fitness.