With obesity rates having more than doubled since 1980, and considering that 42% of adults aged 18 years and over were overweight in 2020, it’s no wonder that employment of personal trainers is projected to grow 39% from 2020 to 2030*. If you have a passion for fitness and helping others, and if you are motivated, focused, and a good listener, then a rewarding career as a personal trainer may be for you.
You have probably researched how to become a personal trainer and have several questions in mind, which is why we have compiled a list of steps that individuals go through to become a certified personal trainer.
1. Choose an Education
The personal training industry can be confusing with hundreds of certifications and organizations to choose from. It’s crucial to understand the differences between a certification, a degree, and a diploma.
Personal Training Certification: This is a flexible option that is generally completed on your own, using a textbook or self-paced online, and is a faster approach than a degree or diploma. However, most personal trainer certifications do not require hands-on experience, which can leave you underprepared for real-world scenarios. It’s becoming much harder to get a job with just a certification. Many employers now require more experience or qualifications. It’s surprising for many trainers how costly it is to maintain a certification, often around $800/year. This includes renewal fees, continuing education, and time off work. These ongoing costs can add up quickly.
Degrees in Exercise: These focus on kinesiology and exercise science, offering comprehensive knowledge but may take up to 4 years to complete. You will still need to obtain a qualifying credential at the end.
Personal Training School Diploma: Offered by the National Personal Training Institute, this involves hundreds of hours of education with optional hands-on training in the classroom. A diploma from the National Personal Training Institute requires no upkeep of Continuing Education Courses (CECs) and never needs to be renewed. Your diploma in personal training will be good for life, providing a lifetime of value and credibility.
Two Types of Diploma Programs
As if navigating the personal training certification process wasn’t confusing enough, an increasing number of local colleges, community colleges, and online schools are now offering diplomas or degrees in personal training. Avoid them at all costs. Let me break down exactly why these programs are a complete scam in our eyes. We don’t use that word lightly–we see many people being taken advantage of.
Clock Hour vs. Credit Hour Programs
Most colleges follow a credit hour system, bundling personal training with unrelated courses that have little to no relevance to the fitness industry. You’ll find yourself sitting in classes alongside nurses and phlebotomists, learning peripheral subjects that do nothing to make you a better trainer. After spending time and money on unnecessary coursework, you’ll end up taking a prep course for a basic certification—something you could have done on your own for a fraction of the cost. And don’t expect career placement assistance when you graduate.
On the other hand, clock hour programs—like the National Personal Training Institute—are entirely dedicated to personal training and nutrition. Every hour of education is focused on making you a qualified, knowledgeable trainer, without wasting time on irrelevant material. Ask yourself: Why would a personal trainer need to study hair follicles or the layers of the eye?
Why Choose a Diploma with the National Personal Training Institute?
- Comprehensive and Practical Experience: We offer a robust curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice. You will not only learn the science behind personal training but also apply it in real-world settings. Pennsylvania Distance Learning students will have the chance to participate in optional practical activities that enhance their daily learning experience, independent from the Diploma Program.
- Extensive Reach: With over 250 locations throughout the United States, Canada, and now globally, you can find a convenient location near you.
- Flexible Schedules: We offer day, evening, and weekend class schedules. Whether you prefer an accelerated six-month program or a more extended year-long schedule, We accommodate your lifestyle.
- Real Work Experience: From day one, students experience exactly what it is like being a personal fitness trainer through hands-on training. This practical approach ensures you are job-ready upon graduation.
- Financial Assistance: Available to all students – 0% monthly payment plans.
- Lifetime Job Placement Assistance: We provide worldwide job placement assistance for all graduates, ensuring you find the right opportunity to launch your career.
- Lifetime Validity: Your diploma never expires! There are no costly renewal fees or CEUs required, saving you time and money over your career.
When comparing these options, the National Personal Training Institute clearly stands out as the superior choice for aspiring personal trainers. Our program’s comprehensive approach, practical training, and lifelong support set you up for unparalleled success in the fitness industry.
2. Find Your Career Path
Thousands of National Personal Training Institute graduates have gained the confidence and skills necessary to become personal trainers at health clubs, vacation resorts, spas, and in their own personal training studios. Employers contact us daily looking to hire National Personal Training Institute personal trainers!
Just a few places our graduates work:
- Life Time Fitness
- F-45 Training
- Orangetheory Fitness
- Equinox Fitness Clubs
- The Sports Club
- YOURSELF!
Successful Graduate-Owned Businesses:
Check out some of our graduates who have gone on to start their own business ventures: https://nationalpti.org/about-npti/testimonials/
3. Market Yourself
Once you become a personal trainer, you need to continually market yourself. When starting out and funds are limited, social media and networking will be beneficial in gaining recognition in your community. Promote yourself on all major social networking sites, such as Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Additionally, get your National Personal Training Institute diploma verified on IDEA and connect with fitness and wellness professionals. Ultimately, you may benefit from creating a website and establishing a business email account.
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*Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Fitness Trainers and Instructors, on the Internet at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/personal-care-and-service/fitness-trainers-and-instructors.htm (visited August 2023).
