There are many different routes to becoming a personal trainer. The amount of time you have, money you want to spend and knowledge you want to acquire will determine what training you pursue. Educational programs vary from at-home study certifications to Bachelor degrees from accredited colleges.
Home Study
The minimum amount of education you need is a certification in personal training. This is typically a home-study course that you do on your own. There are several organizations that offer this option, including the American Council on Exercise (ACE), American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), the International Sports and Sciences Association (ISSA), and others. When deciding, look at their reputation, curriculum, qualifications and experience. You should also talk with potential gyms and other employers that you are interested in working for. They can advise you on their education requirements and the certification programs they accept.
Personal Trainer Schools
There are accredited institutions that offer personal trainer education. These schools provide more in-depth education and hands-on training. Courses are available on-line or on-site and vary in length from 200 to 1200 hours or three to ten months. Programs across the United States include the National Personal Training Institute and the American Academy of Personal Training, as well as many local, private institutions.
Bachelor Degrees
For the most extensive and comprehensive education, Bachelor programs are available at many colleges and universities. You can attend part-time or full-time and choose a major in physical education, exercise physiology or human kinetics. Program reputations and curricula vary, so visit each school you are interested in for complete details.
CPR
In addition to the above coursework, you must be CPR certified. The American Red Cross offers ongoing classes throughout the country, and these can be completed within one day. CPR certifications must be renewed each year, so you will be required to take updated classes throughout your career.
Fitness Background
A fitness background and personal experience is an important step to becoming a personal trainer. You should be physically active and have several years of experience with your own training and workouts. Clients look for a personal trainer who is in good shape and practices what he preaches. You should also have a background in working with others in fitness. Teaching classes at your local gym is a good way to do this. You do not need to be a personal trainer to teach aerobics classes, but you will need to take a class from the gym to become certified to teach that class. This background will help you understand the science of training when you study, and it will give you more credibility with clients when you become a personal trainer.
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