Personal trainers get to work with people, live an active lifestyle and earn a living at the same time. The Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, estimates that fitness workers will see a 27 percent increase of available jobs within 2006 and 2016, faster than the average for other professions. As of May 2006, median annual salaries for personal trainers were $25,910.
Step 1
Decide what type of personal trainer certification you wish to pursue. There are a number of options, from short weekend workshops to online programs to 6 to 12 months in college-based classes. If you have no previous knowledge of the topic, you may want to choose a more involved program where you can learn hands-on. If you already know how to train and the basics of nutrition, an online class can help you obtain written proof of your knowledge.
Step 2
Find out if the certification you plan on taking requires you to be CPR certified. Most large organizations will ask for proof before you are allowed to sit for an exam. CPR certification takes half a day and can be obtained from the Red Cross or the American Heart Association.
Step 3
Prepare for the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) or the the American Council on Exercise (ACE) exams if you want a nationally-recognized certification. These two organizations are considered the top ranking in the field and having a certification from either one will make it easier to get a job. Both the ACSM and ACE offer two-day workshops you can attend to prepare, or you can choose to do it at home by buying textbooks and practice exams through the companies' websites. Study aids like CD-ROMS, audio and study cards are also available.
Step 4
Find a job at a club. This is especially important if you have never worked as a trainer before, since clubs will usually provide on-the-job training to help you with the practicalities of getting started. If you decide to work for yourself, start by training friends and family members so you can gain experience and references.
Step 5
Get personal liability insurance if you decide to work independently. If you work for a club as an employee, their insurance will typically cover you.
Step 6
Decide how much to charge per hour, what type of training you will provide (general or specialized for a particular sector of the population) and where you will work (the clients home, a gym, outdoors).
Tips and Warnings
- Continuing education credits are required by some organizations to keep the certification in good standing. Even if not required, you should consider attending classes and seminars to keep up to date with the latest research on the industry. Specializing in a sector of the population can lead to higher income. Popular options include prenatal fitness, group training, weight loss programs and senior fitness.
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