How to Become a Fitness Trainer

While you have been at the gym working out, have you ever wondered how to become a fitness trainer?  If you have the desire to work with people, a true passion for fitness, and a basic knowledge of the body and how it functions, you could become a fitness trainer!

To begin, there are many different levels of training and certification when becoming a fitness trainer.

1. Get your basic certification - Your first step should be basic fitness certification, which can be found through several organizations:

The National Academy of Sports Medicine

The American Council on Exercise

The National Strength & Conditioning Association

The American College of Sports Medicine

National Council on Strength and Fitness

National Federation of Professional Trainers

National Exercise and Sports Trainers Association

2. Get certified in CPR – In order to become a fitness trainer, you will also need to have certification in CPR. To find a local CPR certification class, visit the American Heart Association.
3. Join other fitness trainers - Once you’ve become a fitness trainer by obtaining your certification, you can also join the National Athletic Trainer's Association.
4. Get schooled – In order to become a fitness trainer, you can also get a degree in sports, sports medicine, nutrition, exercise physiology, or any other number of related fields. An academic degree will ensure that you receive thorough education and be prepared to not only educate your clients on how to get fit, but how to stay healthy, avoid injury, and meet their true potential. There are different kinds of degrees available:

-          Associates Degree - Most associate’s degrees require only a 2-year commitment and can be found at many community or local colleges.

-          Bachelors Degree - A bachelor’s degree can be obtained at almost any 4-year institution, but check carefully for degrees that are in the field of fitness, nutrition, and exercise before you apply.

-          Masters Degree – A master’s degree is an additional two years after you have completed your bachelor’s degree.

Always verify that the school you have chosen is accredited in fitness. To check out different schools, visit the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools.

5. Start with familiar ground - Another good place to start when looking into becoming a fitness trainer is your own gym, especially if you’d like to work there. Ask to speak to a manager about their fitness trainers, and then inquire about the certification they require and ask what steps they would recommend in order to become a fitness trainer for them.

Still not sure if being a fitness trainer is right for you? Check out http://www.starting-a-personal-training-business.com/ to see if you’ve got the right skills and interests for the job.

Once you’ve gotten your certification, you can find work in many gyms as a certified fitness trainer.

Get ready to take the first steps towards what can be a wonderful, fulfilling, and enjoyable career!