How to Become a Personal Trainer
Dave Goldstein, VP of Business Development
There are several paths you can take to become a Personal Fitness Trainer. One school of thought is to first seek a Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology or a related field and, depending on your goals, then potentially pursue a Master's Degree.
However, the quickest and least expensive path to becoming a trainer is to earn a Certification from one or many of the organizations accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). Having background knowledge is helpful, but not required if you chose this path.
Why is choosing an NCCA accredited certification important? The NCCA was the first organization to offer accreditation in the fitness industry as a way to ensure the public's health, safety and welfare. It also assures you, as a trainer, that your certification will be nationally recognized by most gyms and fitness centers.
Step 1: Choose an NCCA accredited certification.
The certification you choose should provide education that focuses on anatomy, exercise physiology, kinesiology, nutrition, motivational techniques, business and sales skills, proper program design and utilization of leading technology solutions; such as heart rate monitors. The certification should be accredited by the National Commission of Certifying Agencies (NCCA), such as NESTA's PFT 2.0.
Step 2 : Decide if starting your own personal training business is right for you or if you want to work in a health club or studio setting.
The trainer who chooses to be either an independent contractor or studio owner: For the trainers in this arena; not only is the above education important, but also affiliations with companies that provide you with tools to grow your businesses. Tools such as liability insurance, heart rate monitor distribution, organic meal options, downloadable workout programs for iPod's and additional specialization programs you can incorporate; programs such as Pilates, Yoga and Fitness Nutrition Coaching. All of these services and programs will increase the earning potential of the trainer, and their studio.
For the trainer who will be working in a health club environment: Trainers who work in this arena need to learn how to best service the club’s clientele through consummate professionalism, a high level of ethics, safety and success; not only for themselves but their employers as well. Our fitness jobs page provides a complimentary job listing board for you to view the latest companies hiring personal trainers.
Step 3: Enroll in a CPR and First Aid training class.
Regardless of your employment status, having CPR and First Aid card makes you more marketable and your clients confident in your professionalism.
Step 4: Obtain personal liability insurance.
Most trainers are required to carry insurance to protect their clients and themselves against personal injury and property loss if working as an independent contractor or at a studio. Philadelphia Fitness and Wellness insurance provides our trainers with a discounted rate once certified through NESTA. You will be covered through the health club’s liability insurance if you decide to work for a chain.
Step 5: Offer your services to friends or family members to gain experience and possibly referrals.
Your family and friends are the easiest place to start, and they will help you gain the confidence and experience needed to start your career.
Step 6: Decide how much to charge per hour.
Independent or contract trainers can charge anywhere from $25 to $200 an hour, depending on professional background, clientele and services. Trainers who work in health clubs can make between $15 - $75 an hour and have thousands of members to market their services to.
Step 7: Interview at local gyms to find out about opportunities.
A good place to start is our free personal trainer jobs listing page.
