Every year, thousands of people consider starting a career in the fitness industry. There are many reasons behind a person’s decision to pursue a career in health and fitness. Whereas some are driven by their love of staying fit, others are passionate about helping others change the way they live. Many people are also inspired by the life changes instilled by their fitness journey.
Not everyone, however, knows where to start in the industry. Where do you get a certification in personal training? Is fitness Australia CEC different from an ASFA certification in the US? Is there an international certification that will allow you to work from one country to another?
If you are interested in starting a career in fitness, here are some things to keep in mind.
How Do You Know If You’re a Good Fit for the Job?
Start by answering and taking this quiz to determine if your hobbies and interests align with those of a personal trainer or other jobs in the fitness industry.
You enjoy planning and scheduling your workout routines.
You have a strong desire to help others achieve their fitness goals.
You enjoy planning and scheduling your workout routines
Your family and friends regularly ask you for fitness advice.
You are mindful of the food and beverages you consume.
You enjoy pushing your body to new limits, you are a good communicator.
If you answered “true” to all (if not most) of these statements, you might want to consider a career in fitness.
How Can You Start a Career in the Fitness Industry?
Step One: Find Your Fitness Passion
Many people who want a career in fitness are passionate about fitness, wellness and health. They also have a desire to help others, which is why they’re venturing into the industry. Before you say yes to the industry, determine if your passion is strong enough to fuel your career in fitness.
Step Two: Determine the Career Path in the Industry
There are many jobs available in the fitness industry. A personal trainer is the most common career options people choose but there are other jobs that may catch your interest.
Personal Trainer – As a personal trainer, you are responsible for constantly monitoring your client’s performance. You are also in charge of planning their workouts, as well as how long the client has to do each one. Moreover, if a client currently has health problems, you must create a workout that helps them address them. You can also help them plan healthier meals or at least, healthier versions of their favorite guilty pleasures (a healthier cherry fudge recipe anyone?).
Group exercise instructor – This job requires training batches or groups of people in different sessions. You will supervise and motivate a group of clients while doing workout sessions like Pilates, Zumba, dance aerobics and more.
Fitness director – This role is somewhat similar to an HR manager. You are in charge of supervising a group of instructors, as well as ensuring smooth operations of the gym. You are also responsible for the maintenance, repair and replacement of gym equipment and machines.
Weight and lifestyle management consultant – These consultants often deal with clients struggling with obesity. Your job is to design special dietary and workout plans designed to help them lose fat.
Related: Proactive Ways to Get In Shape and Refresh Your Appearance
Step Three: Get Qualified
One of the most important next steps is to determine how you can get qualified. For example, if you want to be a personal fitness instructor, you need a level 2 fitness instructor qualification. A level 3 PT qualification is important, too. Also, before you work with clients, you’ll need insurance and first aid training.
Fortunately, there are many providers that offer training. Before you enroll one, think about how you want to learn (e.g. on your own or in a group, theoretical or practical-based), what your current commitments are (are you looking for a full-time job or a part-time job?) and other benefits. Also, make sure that the course you take is fully accredited so that you get insurance.
Step Four: Find Your Preferred Setting
It’s best to get experience as soon as possible, especially once you’re qualified. You can start as a freelancer and work for a chain of gyms. You can also try your hand at a mobile set-up, aka training clients at their homes or at local parks.
No matter what your personal goals are, you can achieve them. The first step is to write them down, plan, get certified and make it happen. Just remember: you can do anything you want in this business – whether you want to get into teaching and educating or management and operations. But you need to make an effort to make it happen.
Good luck!
