Fitness Trainer Description
A fitness trainer is a certified instructor who educates and trains a group of individuals or a client one-on-one in the benefits of physical fitness. Mainly, a fitness trainer works in a health club or gym. They may also be employed privately, at hospitals or in yoga studios.
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Job Responsibilities
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The fitness trainer's primary job responsibilities are to motivate, inspire and educate groups or individuals in the benefits of health fitness and muscle building. The qualified candidate should be open to listening to the needs of the client, devising a strategy on how to best achieve those goals and to effectively communicate how the client can best maintain oneself after his or her goals have been reached. The ability to demonstrate actual exercises is necessary. The qualified fitness trainer should also be in good physical and mental health.
Job Opportunities
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As of 2009, it looks like there will be an increasing number of job opportunities in the health and fitness industry over the next few years. As the baby boomer generation begins to retire in mass numbers, many are turning to health clubs and fitness trainers to maintain and build healthy, physical lifestyles. Qualified candidates should look in trade papers and in the classified section of local newspapers for opportunities. Many health and fitness clubs around the country are hiring qualified candidates, even in relatively hard economic times. Candidates should remain open to building their resumes by exploring group fitness opportunities such as teaching yoga or pilates. Some health clubs have fitness trainers on staff as employees who earn a base salary and are paid a commission based on the number of clients they bring in, while others contract with independent trainers who pay a share of their profits for the use of the facility.
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Qualitative Requirements
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A fitness trainer should first and foremost be a strong communicator and a good listener. The ability to work overtime, especially nights and weekends, is helpful. The qualified candidate should also be open to travel, particularly for higher-end clients.
Educational Requirements
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The qualified fitness trainer should have a high school diploma and the necessary certification to be a trainer based on the requirements of the facility he or she is looking to work in. Most trainers go to the National Academy of Sports Medicine for their certification, which is widely accepted across the industry. Before a fitness trainer can get certified by NASM, he or she must have current certification to perform CPR and operate an Automated External Defribrillator. Those looking for advanced opportunities and a better salary should be willing to continue their education through industry events and possibly an undergraduate or graduate degree program.
Average Compensation
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According to Salary.com, the average fitness trainer earns approximately $52,535 in total annual compensation, as of 2009. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the industry as a whole will see an increase in its workforce of approximately 29 percent by 2016.
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References
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