Fitness Careers

Fitness careers are expected to continue growing until at least the year 2016 as baby boomers age and obesity-related diseases become more prevalent. While many upper-level or management fitness careers require a bachelor's degree in exercise science, other entry level positions only require basic certifications and a passion for fitness. If you're looking for a way to work on your career while improving your health, consider picking up a certification in fitness.

Group Exercise Instructor

Group exercise instructors work part-time at athletic clubs and fitness centers to lead classes like step aerobics, kickboxing, yoga, pilates, weight training and dance. Most instructors start out by taking classes themselves to get a good feel for the rhythm, enthusiasm and instruction required to keep the class on track for participants. If you're interested in becoming an instructor, sign up for a certification course through a nationally accredited organization like the American Council on Exercise, the American College of Sports Medicine, or the Aerobic and Fitness Association of America. After you receive general certification, you may continue learning about a specific fitness specialty, like yoga or Zumba. Additional training or certification can further advance your fitness career.

Personal Trainer

Personal trainers have the opportunity for either part-time or full-time employment in the fitness field. While not required, receiving a bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology or physical education can positively impact your marketability as a personal trainer, especially when it comes to opportunities for management advancement. To work at a reputable fitness center, you must receive a personal training certification from a nationally recognized organization like the National Strength and Conditioning Association, the National Academy of Sports Medicine, the American Council on Exercise, the American College of Sports Medicine or the Cooper Institute. These courses usually cost between $350.00 and $700.00, and usually include appropriate training materials, which you can find on the organization's websites. Once you have received your certification, you'll have the opportunity to work one-on-one or in small groups with clients - writing programs, demonstrating proper form and encouraging improved fitness. After developing a solid client base at a large fitness center, you could choose to branch out on your own and offer home-based training.

Children's Fitness Instructor

Gyms and fitness centers have started offering more child-centric fitness programs because of the growing rates of childhood obesity. According to Amy Loomis, a sport and fitness coordinator in Salem, OR, while anyone with a personal training certification can lead these classes, it takes a special personality to develop a rapport with kids. Children also have shorter attention spans that require fast-moving and entertaining classes that will keep them engaged. If you're a creative-type who enjoys children, consider getting additional training in children's fitness. Many certification organizations like the American Council on Exercise or Zumba offer courses geared specifically to children.