Personal trainers are responsible for training individuals and developing a healthy workout regimen for all their clients. They often work with different muscle groups and combine this knowledge with cardiovascular training to provide their clients with the best exercise program possible. They may demonstrate various exercises and improve their client's technique. They work either in a client's home or a gym. Personal trainers conduct fitness consultations and assessments. Develop unique programs that ensure client safety and enhancement of personal fitness goals to members and guests throughout the club. They also assist club members in understanding how to operate the weight resistance and cardiovascular equipment correctly. Personal trainers receive very little on-the-job training. They generally work with an experienced trainer before working with a client alone.
An employer may require that they have a bachelor's degree in physical education or exercise science. In addition, personal trainers need to become certified. Reputable certifying agencies are accredited by NCCA (National Commission for Certifying Agencies). In order to be certified candidate must have a high school diploma and CPR certification. Job excerpts from CareerBuilder.com describe typical requirements: Personal Training Certification required (ACE, ACSM, CSCS, NSCA, NASM, NCCPT, ISSA, AFTA). Degree in a health or fitness related field. High School diploma, plus a recognized personal training certification (within 90 days of hire), or a bachelor's or master's degree in fitness related field. Experience and nutrition knowledge preferred. Sales experience and/or bilingual a plus. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), www.bls.gov, fitness workers will enjoy strong job growth in the upcoming future. Jobs will grow by 27 percent. The median annual income of a fitness worker in general was $25,910 in 2006. A personal trainer may make considerably more
References: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-09 Edition, Fitness Workers, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos296.htm