Fitness trainers help with weight loss, exercise and fitness training. There are different certifications, with varying qualifications, including CPR and AED certification. Advanced qualifications can lead to more job opportunities and higher salaries. Accreditation by NCCA is important for recognition.
Fitness trainers are individuals who help others with fitness related issues such as weight loss and management, exercise and fitness training. There are several different fitness trainer certifications, including personal fitness trainer, group fitness trainer, lifestyle and weight management trainer, and advanced health and fitness specialist. Qualifications for each type of certification vary, but generally require taking and passing an exam specifically designed for each type of certification.
Fitness trainer qualifications start with the obvious: an interest in health and fitness and a desire to help others achieve their health and fitness goals. The most basic level of certification requires course completion and current certification in CPR and Automated External Defibrillator (AED). More advanced levels of certification may require college-level courses or at a minimum an associate’s degree in a health or fitness-related field.
While fitness instructor qualifications may vary depending on the level of certification applied for, other qualifications may be required by an employing agency. For example, the requirements to become a certified personal trainer are not as rigorous as those required to become a certified performance enhancement specialist or athletic trainer. Fitness instructor qualifications for advanced certification levels may include current lower-level certifications or a four-year degree in a related field. A combination of current certifications and education may be substituted for four-year degrees in some cases.
Certified personal trainers, group trainers, athletic trainers and weight loss trainers can expand their fitness trainer qualifications to include degrees in physical or occupational therapy, sports medicine, nutrition or physical education. These advanced qualifications can offer more employment opportunities, such as working in hospitals, orthopedic and sports medicine facilities, or college or high school athletic departments. Individuals with lower-level certifications that don’t require specific degrees can still find employment in gyms and health clubs, community centers, or they can work on their own.
Required fitness trainer qualifications vary by certifying agency and type of certification desired, as well as desired job location. Prospective fitness instructors must ensure that all courses or exams taken meet qualifications for certification accredited by the National Commission of Certifying Agencies (NCCA) or the accrediting organization in a specific jurisdiction. This is the best way to ensure that a facility or employing institution recognizes the certification. Many fitness certifications require continuing education credits to maintain current qualifications. The more advanced the certification and education involved, the higher potential salaries are for the field.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
