Arthritis is a disease characterized by joint pain and inflammation. More than 67 million adults will suffer from arthritis by the year 2030, according to 2003 data from the National Health Interview Survey. Exercise can help prevent and improve arthritis symptoms. You must become educated about exercise and arthritis to become a personal trainer for arthritic clients.
Step 1
Obtain a nationally recognized personal training certification. Certifications are offered by organizations like the National Strength and Conditioning Association, American Council on Exercise, National Academy of Sports Medicine and American College of Sports Medicine.
Step 2
Become certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the use of an automated external defibrillator. CPR and AED training is important for all personal trainers because it helps save lives in the event of cardiac arrest. CPT and AED training is especially important for a personal trainer for people with arthritis because arthritis patients tend to be older and may have more health problems or risk factors than other types of clients. Certifications are offered by the American Red Cross and the American Heart Association.
Step 3
Gain experience as a personal trainer for healthy individuals. Safety is extremely important when training arthritic clients, so you shouldn't train them until you are able to safely and effectively train healthy people. Master principles of program design, exercise progression and exercise technique.
Step 4
Find a mentor who has experience working with clients with arthritis. Learn about her experiences and suggestions. Observe sessions with her clients, if possible. Ask your fitness manager for suggestions if you work at a health club.
Step 5
Obtain a certification or attend a workshop that is specific to fitness for arthritis, such as the Arthritis Foundation's Exercise Program Instructor Training Workshop. Alternatively, enroll in an Exercise for Special Populations class through your local college, university or fitness organization. Make sure the class covers arthritis before enrolling.
Step 6
Market yourself to potential clients with arthritis. Add your new credentials to your business card, web site or other marketing materials. Leave business cards with local doctors, senior centers, assisted living centers and arthritis clubs. Offer free consultations and teleseminars. Send out an email or print announcement to your current clients or gym members. Write articles about arthritis for your local newspaper or magazine.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Data and Statistics
- Arthritis Foundation: What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
- Arthritis Foundation: What is Osteoarthritis?
- American Council on Exercise: Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program Instructor Training Workshop
- National Academy of Sports Medicine: Get Certified
- American Council on Exercise: Accredited Fitness Certifications
- National Strength and Conditioning Association: NSCA Certification
- American College of Sports Medicine: Certification and Workshops
- American Heart Association: CPR Statistics
- American Heart Association: Find a Class Near You
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