In the realm of physical fitness and weight loss, many people fall short on enthusiasm, or lose their drive as workouts become tougher. Fitness trainers offer enthusiasm, support and guidance for people who want to get in shape. The definition of a fitness trainer includes a fitness expert who works with individuals, such as a personal trainer, or works with groups, such as a group fitness instructor.
Personal Trainers
A fitness trainer is a certified professional trained in a fitness field, often personal training. Personal trainers can earn certifications from a variety of national fitness organizations, including the American Council on Exercise and the American College of Sports Medicine. Personal trainers work with clients one on one in gyms, at clients' homes or at the trainer's facilities. A personal trainer creates an individualized fitness plan for each client to help the client meet her personal fitness goals.
Group Fitness Instructors
Some fitness trainers are group fitness instructors, leading classes in a wide range of specific areas, from yoga to step aerobics. Group fitness instructors are certified by organizations such as ACE and ACSM. Some fitness class teachers may be certified by other organizations relevant to their specialty, such as dance, yoga or boxing. Group fitness instructors work in gyms, nursing homes, offices and community fitness centers.
Expert Insight
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of fitness workers is expected to increase 29 percent through 2018, which is faster than the average rate of increase for jobs in the United States. The wages of fitness trainers can be difficult to average, because many are self-employed and/or work part time. Median annual wages of fitness trainers and aerobics instructors, as of May 2008, are $29,210, according to the BLS. The figures do not include the earnings of self-employed fitness workers. Successful self-employed personal trainers often earn higher salaries.
Considerations
Fitness trainers can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, fitness and recreational sports centers, local government facilities, civic and social organizations and private gyms. Fitness trainers may charge a range of rates, depending on whether the instruction is one on one, if it is a specialized area of instruction and where the instruction occurs. Trainers in hospitals tend to charge more, and personal trainers usually charge more per person than group instructors. The trainer's geographical location and local economy also play a part in each instructor's rates.
Warning
If you are considering hiring a fitness instructor, ask for credentials to make sure the instructor is certified. Personal trainers are usually happy to supply references of former clients, and group fitness instructors can supply resumes with previous fitness classes they've taught. If you hire a trainer and sign a waiver form, read the form so you understand the implications. Many trainers have insurance to protect them in case a client sues, but it is common for client waiver forms to relinquish the right to sue in case an injury occurs.
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