What Do I Need to Become a Personal Trainer?

Personal trainers should be role models for their clients by staying fit.

The personal trainer profession continues to grow in popularity, spurred on in part by the increasing obesity epidemic around the world. Personal trainers assist people with their fitness needs in a variety of capacities. The requirements for becoming a personal trainer vary, often depending on the facility the trainer works for.

Education

Specific education requirements for personal trainers do not exist; however, many gyms and fitness clubs require their trainers have some fitness-related education. Aspiring personal trainers may consider an associate's or bachelor's degree in a field that focuses on exercise physiology and fitness. For instance, degrees in kinesiology, sports science or athletic training all provide a solid framework for a personal training profession.

Certification

Some form of certification is required for most personal training positions. The National Academy of Sports Medicine offers several accredited online CPT (Certified Personal Trainer) packages. These packages offer a variety of study tools including textbooks, study guides, online courses and DVDs to train the student in multiple fitness-specific areas. The American Council on Exercise also offers personal trainer certifications. These certifications include a final exam, which allows students to demonstrate their knowledge in areas such as nutrition, exercise science, instructional techniques and lifestyle modification.

Experience

Since personal trainers assist others in learning fitness techniques such as weightlifting, cardiovascular exercises and stretching, they should be familiar with these areas. Though experience is not always necessary, it can prove extremely beneficial. Personal trainers who understand weight machines, cardio equipment and exercise physiology will be more successful than novice trainers. Personal trainers should become familiar with the gym or facility they work in and understand what equipment their clients will benefit from.

Skills

Personal trainers work one-on-one with clients and must be able to build rapport, communicate effectively and respond appropriately to client needs. Motivation is also important when one is assisting others with their weight loss and fitness needs. Trainers should be able to motivate and stay positive while working within the constraints of each client's abilities.

Teaching is also a skill important for trainers because many customers will be unfamiliar with exercise techniques. Their trainer must be able to demonstrate techniques and use of equipment so clients learn to perform exercises correctly and safely.

Physical Attributes

Personal trainers do not have specific physical requirements; however, clients may veer toward trainers who "look the part." According to Naturalphysiques.com, trainers should serve as a role model in body, mind and action. Therefore, aspiring personal trainers should maintain physical fitness as a priority and demonstrate to their clients they "walk the walk."

References

• Naturalphysiques.com: Qualities of a Fitness Professional
• National Academy of Sports Medicine: Personal Trainer Certification
• American Council on Exercise: Become an ACE-Certified Personal Trainer