Why Become A Personal Trainer?

If you practically live in your local fitness center, you might consider working there as a personal trainer. Trainers design exercise programs tailored to their clients' specific fitness needs. They rarely understand the humor presented in shows like "The Office," because they work outside the proverbial box, or the literal cubical. A love of fitness and people, and a willingness to constantly learn about the fitness industry, are prerequisites for this potentially rewarding career.

Helping People

A doctor might cure diseases and, in some cases, prolong a chronically or fatally ill person's life. A personal trainer can improve her client's quality of life while preventing the development of chronic illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, arthritis and osteoporosis. The physical changes resulting from a regular, well-designed exercise program might inspire an improved mental outlook, characterized by enhanced confidence, self-esteem and level of concentration. People who enjoy seeing positive changes in other human beings experience job satisfaction through personal training.

Staying Healthy

You might not be in the mood to go to the gym, but you have to go there for an appointment with a client. Once there, you might as well do your workout. Being a role model for your clients also means that you are more likely to take care of your own health and physical appearance by eating a healthy diet, watching your weight and adhering to a regular exercise program.

Finances

The 2010-2011 Bureau of Labor Statistics "Occupational Outlook Handbook" predicts an over 20 percent growth in fitness industry jobs by 2018. Personal trainers earn from $20 an hour to upwards of $100 per session. Hourly rates depend on whether you work at a fitness facility or as an independent contractor. The International Dance Exercise Association 2010 industry compensation survey reports an average hourly rate of $25 for trainers working as employees and $42.50 for independent trainers. Some gyms now offer benefits for part-time trainers, such as education funds, health insurance, retirement plans and paid vacation and holidays.

Other Perks

Personal trainers receive fitness industry discounts on exercise equipment, workout clothes and other desirable items. If you travel to a fitness conference, for example, you will receive discounted rates in an upscale hotel, and possibly discounted airfare. Trainers working in more than one club or in different clients' homes benefit from constantly changing work environments, which prevents career boredom and burnout. Some clients even bring their trainers with them and pay their expenses when they travel for business or vacation.