The US Bureau of Labor Statistics states that there are 373,700 people working as fitness trainers or instructors in the US in 2019 alone. But the number of people interested in becoming fitness instructors is growing yearly.
If you’re planning to become a personal fitness instructor, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, you will find out why it’s a great career choice and what steps you need to take to become one.
What is a fitness instructor?
Generally speaking, a fitness instructor is someone who helps people to improve their physical well-being. They do this by creating and supervising exercise programs and providing advice on healthy lifestyle choices.
Fitness instructors usually work in gyms, health clubs, or other fitness facilities. However, some may work in corporate settings, community centers, or even people’s homes.
Why become a fitness instructor?
There are many reasons why you might want to become a fitness instructor. For one, it’s a great way to help people improve their health and quality of life. But in addition, the advantages include:
- It’s a growing industry. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the rate of fitness trainers and instructors is expected to grow by 10% from 2018 to 2028, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
- It’s relatively easy to get started. You don’t need a college degree or extensive training to become a fitness instructor. In most cases, a certificate from a nationally-recognized organization (such as the National Academy of Sports Medicine or the American Council on Exercise) is all you need.
- It’s a great way to stay in shape yourself. As a fitness instructor, you’ll have regular access to workout facilities and equipment, which can help you maintain a healthy lifestyle.
- It can be a flexible career. Many fitness instructors are self-employed, which means they can set their own hours and work as much or as little as they want.
What steps do I need to take to become a fitness instructor?
If you’re interested in becoming a fitness instructor, there are a few steps you need to take:
Get certified
As mentioned above, most fitness instructors are certified by a nationally-recognized organization, such as the National Academy of Sports Medicine or the American Council on Exercise. There are many different certification programs available, so be sure to choose one that’s right for you.
Get insured
Before you start working as a fitness instructor, you need to get liability insurance. This will protect you in case someone is injured while participating in one of your classes or programs. Insurance is also required if you plan to work in a gym or other fitness facility.
Market yourself
The next step to take is to market yourself. This can be done by creating a website or blog and using social media to promote your services. You can also consult a credible marketing agency to help you get started. They will help you create a professional-looking website and promote your business through various channels.
Find a job
Once you’ve completed the steps above, you can start looking for a job as a fitness instructor. You can search online job boards or contact gyms and other fitness facilities in your area. But you also have the choice to work independently, which means you can set your own hours and work from home.
Add ons!
While the mentioned steps are the bare minimum to get started as a fitness instructor, there are a few add-ons that can help you succeed in this career:
Get CPR certified
While it’s not required, getting CPR certified is always a good idea, especially if you’re working with high-risk groups or individuals. It can also be an advantage when applying for jobs.
Get certified in first aid
Like CPR certification, getting certified in first aid is not required, but it’s always a good idea. It can help you respond quickly and effectively to any injuries or medical emergencies during your classes or programs.
Enroll in a fitness instructor training program
While most fitness instructors are certified, some choose to enroll in a training program to gain more knowledge and experience. These programs usually last several weeks or months and cover anatomy, physiology, and exercise science.
Start your career today!
As you can see, becoming a fitness instructor is a relatively easy process. Once you’ve completed the steps above, you can start marketing yourself and finding jobs. It’s a rewarding career promoting healthy lifestyles and flexible work schedules. So start your fitness instructor career today and change lives for the better!
