General
Description:
Thanks to the
growing increased interest in physical
fitness among aging boomers and a culture that embraces a "fit and trim"
image, opportunities for fitness trainers are on the increase. According
to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, "Overall employment of recreation and
fitness workers is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2012, as an increasing
number of people spend more time and money on recreation, fitness, and leisure
services and as more businesses recognize the benefits of recreation and fitness
programs and other services such as wellness programs."
Income
Potential: According to several different trainers and fitness
pros, personal trainers who contract with gyms can expect to earn $30,000 to
$45,000 annually, while self-employed trainers can earn $45,000 to $100,000
(some "superstar" trainers can earn more than this, but it is the
exception, rather than the norm).
Options
for Flexibility: You
can work as an independent contractor for a gym, community based program (i.e., YWCA) private fitness
program (i.e., Jazzercise studios, spa, corporate fitness program or senior
residence facility) to teach classes or provide 1-to-1 training.
If you want to increase your income potential, you can offer classes, programs or 1-to-1
training as a sole practitioner. Building a clientele and following of one's own does take time
and persistence, but the financial rewards can be significant.
Generally, fitness trainers and aerobics instructors must obtain a
certification in the fitness field to obtain employment. Certification may be
offered in various areas of exercise such as personal training, weight training,
and aerobics. There are many organizations that offer certification testing in
the fitness field, some of which are listed below.
Resources
for Further Exploration:
Associations:
- American Council on Exercise, 4851 Paramount Dr., San Diego, CA
92123.
- National Strength and Conditioning Association, 4575 Galley Rd.,
Suite 400B, Colorado Springs, CO 80915.
- American College of Sports Medicine, PO Box 1440, Indianapolis, IN
46206-1440.
Books:
Certified
Fitness Trainer Career Starter
by Lauren Starkey
