Certified fitness trainers work closely with their clients. Generally, a Fitness trainer's main theme is to improve others' health and fitness safely and efficiently. If you derive immense satisfaction from engaging in physical activity and find great fulfillment in providing hands-on guidance to individuals as fitness trainer, then opting for this profession may be a compelling choice. In this article, you will learn more about fitness trainers, how much they can earn, and the steps guide you will have to take to join this profession or as a career.
What is a certified fitness trainer?
A certified fitness trainer is the absolute best in their field, having obtained the highest level of certification from a renowned fitness institute like ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine). Their expertise and knowledge make them unmatched in providing fitness guidance and instruction. Equipped with unparalleled knowledge and skills, they are poised to empower clients in attaining their nutrition, fitness, and overall health objectives. Becoming a certified personal trainer emerges as the absolute pinnacle for elevating the visibility and maximizing the potential to attract and secure new clients.
How much-certified fitness trainers make?
Fitness trainers in the United States have the highest earning potential. with an exceptional average annual salary of $40,570. It's important to consider that this amount can vary based on factors such as experience, skills and location.
Moreover, the job outlook for fitness professionals or fitness trainers is positive. According to the US BLS, the number of jobs for personal instructors and fitness trainers is expected to grow by 19% within 2021 - 2031, resulting in about 65,500 new jobs every year throughout the decade.
How much time does it generally take to obtain certification as a fitness trainer?
On-the-job training programs for personal or fitness trainers can range from one week to several months, offering valuable hands-on experience alongside seasoned trainers to learn the company's work procedures and processes.
Becoming a Certified Fitness Trainer: 7 Tips
Once you’ve made the decision to pursue a career in personal training, it’s essential to obtain the necessary certification to enhance your credibility and expertise.
The most critical aspect to consider when deciding where to pursue your certification is whether the certifying organization has obtained accreditation.
Step 1: Conduct thorough research.
To ensure an exceptionally successful career as a fitness instructor or personal trainer as a fitness instructor or personal trainer, it is of utmost importance to meticulously determine the precise type of instructor you aspire to become and meticulously select the optimal setting in which you envision working. This could encompass a variety of options, ranging from prominent health clubs and bustling studios to the ever-evolving realm of virtual instruction.
Step2: Consider a degree
While a high school diploma is the minimum educational requirement, pursuing a degree in exercise science, physical education, or kinesiology can provide a comprehensive foundation in key areas such as biology, anatomy, nutrition, and exercise techniques, enhancing your ability to serve clients as a fitness instructor.
Step 3: Develop essential skills.
No matter the chosen setting, whether it be a gym, a fitness studio, or personal training sessions, as a fitness instructor, you will experience unparalleled daily interactions with people. Mastering exceptional communication and interpersonal skills in this role enables you to forge profound connections and empower others to achieve their fitness goals more effectively.
Communication:
A huge part of your role as a fitness instructor will involve actively demonstrating various exercises, articulating their specific benefits, and providing guidance to correct any form or technique issues. By effectively showcasing exercises, explaining their advantages, and offering corrective feedback, you can enhance your ability to support and guide individuals in their fitness journey.
Active Listing:
This is an important thing that helps you better to understand your client’s individual abilities, limitations, and specific fitness goals, you can tailor your instruction and support to meet their unique needs and optimize their overall fitness experience.
Motivational Skills:
Achieving a fitness goal can be hard work. As a fitness instructor, you should have to inspire and encourage your clients to stay committed by acquiring motivational techniques. You can help them overcome challenges and maintain their enthusiasm throughout their fitness journey.
Customer service:
By treating your clients with respect, kindness, and care and providing a supportive environment, you can establish a positive client-instructor relationship that encourages loyalty and long-term commitment to your services.
Step 4: Enroll in AED/CPR certification program.
Obtaining certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and automated external defibrillator (AED) programs is an absolute must for trainers. These exceptional programs provide trainers with the indispensable skills to effectively aid clients during critical medical emergencies until the arrival of professional medical assistance.
Step 5: Achieve specialized certification.
Prospective trainers should carefully consider their skill sets, personal interests, and professional goals when selecting a specialty in the fitness industry like strength training, cardio fitness, yoga, Corrective exercise, etc. Once you have identified your area of specialization, it is important to thoroughly evaluate the different fitness certifying bodies and the certifications they offer.
Step 6: Earn Certification
Obtaining a certification serves as validation for your skills and capabilities, impressing prospective employers and clients alike. Many fitness experts begin by acquiring a general certification. Fitness centers usually mandate certification for group fitness instructors, while personal trainers usually need certification before undertaking one-on-one client engagements in most instances.
Multiple organizations present general fitness instructor certifications like the American Council on Exercise (ACE), the Athletics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA), and the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM).
Step 6: Create your resume
After enhancing your skills, you can start applying for positions as a personal trainer. Craft a resume that highlights your educational background, professional certification, pertinent work experience, and an objective statement expressing your ambitions and vision as a personal trainer.
Step 7: Keep Learning
With the continuous advancement of our understanding of the human body, the fitness industry will keep evolving. Make a commitment to lifelong learning, enabling you to instruct based on the latest findings in exercise science. Many certifications mandate the acquisition of continuing education credits CECs to stay updated.
Start your own personal training business.
Embark on the extraordinary journey of starting your own personal training business. Whether you choose to be a freelancer or establish a small enterprise, you'll have the unmatched advantage of setting your own rates and keeping all your earnings. You'll have the exceptional opportunity to select the clients to work with. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the requirements of running a business and comply with state regulations. Prioritize obtaining personal trainer insurance, a legal requirement in many areas, before working with clients.
Ensure a thorough understanding of the intricacies of business operations, including insurance, payroll, and taxes.
