Fitness coaches work with clients at gyms or at clients' homes.
Due to the growing number of health clubs and fitness facilities, demand is high for fitness coaches. Also known as personal trainers, fitness coaches usually work one-on-one with a client. either in a gym or the client's home. Trainers assess clients' levels of fitness, set goals and help their clients achieve them. They demonstrate exercises to improve their clients' technique and may advise lifestyle modifications. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, some personal trainers earn upwards of $60,000 per year, not including self-employed trainers, who tend to earn much more.
Skills
In addition to leading a healthy and physically fit lifestyle, those seeking a career in fitness coaching must be outgoing, with excellent communication skills. In order to help clients achieve their health and fitness goals, personal trainers must be good at motivating others. Those working in a large gym environment should have strong sales skills and the personality to attract and retain clients.
Certification
Nearly all employers require fitness coaches to be certified by a reputable organization. Most certifying organizations require candidates to have a high school diploma, be certified in CPR, and pass an exam. Using study materials offered by the course, candidates must display knowledge of human physiology, understanding of proper exercise techniques, the assessment of client fitness levels and development of appropriate exercise programs. Fitness coaches must become re-certified every two years. For individuals interested in training athletes, working with people who are injured or ill or advising clients on general health, more advanced certification is needed. Organizations providing advanced certification generally require an associate's or bachelor's degree in a health-related subject to be eligible for the program.
Training
There is usually no on-the-job training for fitness coaches, as employers expect them to know work upon hiring. Depending on the type of exercises they teach, they may need to take additional training courses or attend fitness conventions. An increasing number of employers require trainers to have a bachelors degree in a health- or fitness-related area. A degree in exercise science, physical education or kinesiology (the study of the mechanics of human motion, including the role of the muscles) may lead to job advancement within a health or fitness center.
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