Fitness coaching is a specialization that fitness professionals can pursue. A certification on fitness coaching is usually open to everybody, even those with no background in the health and fitness industry. Fitness coaches study how to guide and support their clients so they can attain their fitness goals. However, fitness coaching certifications usually do not teach you about fitness, so you will need to pursue an additional certification if you don't have previous knowledge in the field.
Step 1
Choose a certification program for fitness coaching. There are no standard rules on certification and no central managing body, so it's up to you to choose a program that fits your interests and needs. Programs vary from online courses to face-to-face workshops and can last anywhere from a couple of weeks to a year. Two well-known certifications in fitness coaching include the Spencer Institute's Lifestyle Fitness Coach Certification and the American Fitness Professionals & Associates' Fitness Coaching.
Step 2
Complete the course's requirements to earn your certification. These vary widely among programs and might include self-study, non-proctored written exams, research papers or completing projects. Topics often included in certifications are coaching skills, how to communicate with clients, keeping records and tracking progress, coaching ethics and setting boundaries.
Step 3
Join a coaching association. This will improve your image as a professional. Examples of professional coaching associations include the International Association of Coaching and the Association for Coaching®.
Step 4
Stay abreast of new developments in the world of fitness and coaching. Take continuing education classes, attend seminars or subscribe to professional publications and journals. This will also allow you to network with other coaching professionals.
Step 5
Build a practice. If you don't have a lot of fitness experience, team up with a personal trainer or a gym to offer your services. Set up a website so you can reach potential clients beyond the limits of your town. You can also start a blog and use it to offer free advice. As people learn about you and your work, they might end up contacting you for personalized help.
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