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 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.
Degrees in Exercise: These focus on kinesiology and exercise science, offering comprehensive knowledge but take up to 4 years to complete. While they provide a deep understanding, the time and financial investment may be significant.
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.
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. Making it more accessible to start your new career.
- 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.
4. Never Stop Learning
Successful personal trainers never stop learning! They continually improve their skills, obtain CEUs, attend seminars, and read to stay abreast of fitness news and trends. All of these things are investments in your business. Figuring out how to become a personal trainer is only the first step in your journey to building your own successful fitness business. This is not required by the National Personal Training Institute.
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Choosing the National Personal Training Institute means choosing a comprehensive, hands-on, and respected education that sets you up for lifelong success in the fitness industry. Take the first step towards your rewarding career today!
*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).
