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Become a Personal Instructor

Do you have the qualities needed to become a successful personal instructor? Do you intend to work in a health club or run your own fitness business? Are you willing to handle the stress of starting your very own personal training business?

If you answered yes to at least two of these questions, then let us help you learn about becoming a personal instructor.

Successful Trainer Attributes

A personal trainer needs to have a number of skills in order to be successful. You must possess analytical skills, patience, nurturing personality, persistence, organization, skill of an effective motivator and a good listening ear. You must be able to work with different kinds of individuals with varying personalities. It is a must that you lead a healthy lifestyle to serve as a role model for your clients.

Securing a Certification and Specialty

To become a personal instructor, you may either obtain a degree or a certification. You may seek a Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology, or a related field. You may also pursue a Master's Degree to improve your credentials. The fastest and less costly way is earning a certificate from one or more of the organizations accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). Getting an NCAA certificate guarantees you will be nationally recognized by gyms and fitness centers. Some NCAA accredited organizations and their respective costs are American College of Sports Medicine at $219, American Council on Exercise at $219, National Academy of Sports Medicine at $549, National Council on Strength and Fitness at $549, National Federation of Professional Trainers at $450, and International Fitness Professionals Association at $349. A high school diploma or equivalent, 18 years of age, and a current adult CPR certification are common prerequisites to get an NCAA certification.

Although choosing a specialty isn’t required, it will help you become competitive. Boost your resume with the different specialty certifications you’ve obtained. Always find ways to improve your skills and education so become indispensable to your clients.

Searching for Work Opportunities

It is common for a personal instructor to acquire a job at a fitness club. You may call clubs within your area and inquire if they’re hiring trainers. Job openings are also available on the Internet and newspaper.

Another option is to set up your own business. This entails you to choose your business structure, select a business name, register the company, get liability insurance, set up the gym, target clients, and market yourself and the business. To market, you may need flyers, newsletters, business cards, a website, and perhaps conduct neighborhood seminars. Request your friends and family to spread the word about your business. Offering consultations for free will also help you gain more clients. Aside from fitness equipment and gym accessories, you will need a computer, color printer, publishing software, and quality paper for the business.

Apart from working for fitness clubs or setting your own business, you may also work in various fields. You may want to consider cruise ships, corporate fitness, resorts, spas, consulting, fitness writing, athletic coaching, and group fitness instruction, and online training.
 

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