A personal trainer needs to be passionate and knowledgeable about fitness and exercise. While this is the ultimate prerequisite, you can't officially serve as a trainer in a gym without proper certification, including advanced certificates if you wish to train people with special needs. Before obtaining such certification, however, you need to meet the certifying agency's age and education requirements. This typically includes a high school diploma, CPR and automated external defibrillator training.
Prerequisites
You need to be over the age of 18 with at least a high school diploma or its equivalent to qualify for a personal trainer certification program. You must also obtain certifications in emergency medical care. For example, the American College of Sports Medicine requires that you have basic, up-to-date training in CPR for adults, and the American Council on Exercise requires both CPR and automated external defibrillator certification.
Trainer Certifications
A number of different agencies and colleges provide on-site, online and distance education options for personal trainer certifications. Complete a certification program that is accredited so that your future employer recognizes and accepts your credentials.
One of the most widely recognized accrediting agencies is the National Commission for Certifying Agencies. Both of the above nationwide chains list numerous certifications from NCCA-accredited agencies in their requirements for personal trainers, including the National Academy of Sports Medicine, the American Council on Exercise and the American College of Sports Medicine.
Additional Certifications
Once you complete your basic personal trainer certification, you may increase your job opportunities by obtaining additional certifications. Additional certifications for working as a public health educator or for working with specific groups of people can boost your job options and client base. The ACSM, for example, has certifications in working with people with disabilities, individuals with heart problems or cancer. You can also get certifications in military training, weight loss management and performance enhancement training for athletes.
Employer Requirements
Many employers require additional training or specific characteristics. Some gyms, for example, may have a higher minimum age requirement, require post-secondary education in a fitness-related field and only hire people with training experience. Many specializations and advanced certifications require a bachelor's degree, master's degree or clinical education and experience. By continuing your education and adding certifications while you work as a trainer, you can boost your salary, opportunities for advancement and future career options.
References
- "Ask the Trainer"; Becoming a Personal Trainer; Mike Behnken, MS, CSCS
- Institute for Credentialing Excellence: National Commission For Certifying Agencies: Accredited Certification Programs as of March 2011
- American College of Sports Medicine: Get ACSM Certified
- American Council on Exercise: ACE NCCA Accreditation
- National Academy of Sports Medicine: Certified Personal Trainer
- Gold's Gym: FAQs
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