If you enjoy keeping fit and active and have a keen interest in health and well being then a career as a personal trainer could be perfect for you. Personal trainers help their clients achieve their personal health and fitness goals.
In theory you can become a personal trainer at any stage of your life but it helps to start off as a fitness instructor with a high level of experience and recognised qualifications.
You will also need good ‘people’ skills and an outgoing, friendly personality. A knowledge of the way the body works is important too.
Personal trainers are usually based either at a gym or leisure centre, or they visit clients in their home or workplace. Training could take place in any of these locations, as well as outdoors at a local park.
The work:
- asses a client’s fitness levels and current state of health
- devise short term and long term goals within an attainable plan
- motivate, educate and coach clients to reach their goals
- provide advice on diet and lifestyle choices
- record and measure a client’s progress
Personal skills and qualities:
- good motivational skills and enthusiasm for the job
- high energy levels
- excellent communication skills
- patience and understanding
- physically fit with a healthy lifestyle
To become a personal trainer you would normally be an experienced fitness instructor with a recognised qualification.
Personal trainers are usually self-employed, whether working alone, for a personal training company as a franchisee, or based at a health and fitness club.
As well as a relevant personal training qualification, you will need to have a first aid certificate and personal liability insurance.
Trainers based at a health and fitness club or gym usually pay a licence fee and rental fee (for use of the facilities) to the club they are based at.
For more information visit www.nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk