becoming a personal trainer

[mlong23]

Don't need any type of certifications. As mentioned earlier it could help at some gyms though.

Wear black pants and a tight black shirt and you are instantly a trainer.

 

[BigCracker]

I'm 24 and have been working out for 6 years, I have a full time job but have been thinking of getting into training on nights and weekends to make some extra cash. I'm 5'10'' 170lbs, and probably around 8-9%BF. I wanted to know if it's the sort of jobs where you can realistically expect to do it part-time, and if so how should I get started? Should I take a certification class? If it helps with the advice I live in LA where there are 1 Billion gyms (I don't know if that helps or hurts). Thanks for any and all advice.

YM

Read my earlier posts. Try getting a job at Bally's or La Fatness-preferably any big chain lovated in an upper/upper middle class area that spends an assload on advertising and supplies you clients. Most gyms will require certification, but I think they may pay for it if they hire you?

Once you get hired, start working on your people skills. The gift of gab helps, but some gym people are very insecure and are easily offended. Not only will they not hire you, they'll go to the gym manager and complain about your shitty attitude. Never underestimate the pleasure some people will derive simply from stirring up some shit to bust your balls. Some will be jealous of you without ever talking to them simply because you have a job many people envy. The avg person thinks a personal trainer is a reputable career that truly benefits the health and fitness of others-even if it's often just a front for gigolo services offered to lonely houswives. lol

Anyway, here's my social literacy 101 tip of the day that can be used to your advantage in both biz and life in general. One sure way to get most people to like you is to remain neutral on all topics. Ride the fence as much as you can-even if you must bite your tongue now and then. Also avoid discussion of politics, sex, race, and religion. These topics involve views many people feel strongly about one way or another. Avoiding these topics altogether will minimize your chances of offending anyone = less people think you're a closed minded dick = more people liking you = more clients/ client referrals = more $$$. Being like this requires some effort, which is why many people could never be a trainer no matter how great that they look or how much they know.

 

[BigCracker]

Don't need any type of certifications. As mentioned earlier it could help at some gyms though.

Wear black pants and a tight black shirt and you are instantly a trainer.

Don't forget your clipboard.

 

[caligirl]

LMFAO-you can receive a degree in exercise physiology without ever setting foot in the gym, let alone lifting weights. I had exercise physiologists as clients that didn't even know how to properly perform a bench press. College is so overated. My friend is a Dr and he comes to me for advice on how to take AAS-and I only have a high school diploma.

However, most people believe a college degree or certification means that you know yopur shit, even if you don't. So with that being said, it's nice to be able to put your certification/education credentials on your biz card. It gives potential clients piece of mind, even when it doesn't mean you actually know what you're doing.

totally agree, good post. that needs to be posted in the trainer forum.

 

[BigCracker]

totally agree, good post. that needs to be posted in the trainer forum.

It's kinda ironic that the trainers that use their certification/degree as their service's main selling point usually look like crap. lol Luckily for them, the avg person doesn't know any better. It's amazing how many people will hire a trainer that's at a lower level of fitness than they are. That's like hiring someone that's never been to America before to take you on a tour of of the states.

 

[shortspanishguy]

totally agree, good post. that needs to be posted in the trainer forum.

yeah I have to agree as well. Alot of people in my major do not have a good grasp on proper form, nutrition, etc. Many of them just wanted to go to grad school for Physical Therapy and really dont give 2 shits about proper exercise. As for me, I am now in Real estate and I do NOT plan on leaving. I hope to use my degree some day.

 

[caligirl]

It's kinda ironic that the trainers that use their certification/degree as their service's main selling point usually look like crap. lol Luckily for them, the avg person doesn't know any better. It's amazing how many people will hire a trainer that's at a lower level of fitness than they are. That's like hiring someone that's never been to America before to take you on a tour of of the states.

Another good post by you. I have to say I have never been asked by my clients or potential clients what my credentials are. They are more likely thinking, hmmmm, if she's in shape, I bet she knows how to get me in shape. I have been approached more times than I could ever count, by people asking " how do I get my shoulders to look like yours?", "how do I get my back to look like yours?" and "how did you get those abs?" Being in great physical condition works to get clients, your overall knowledge and experience will keep them. I actually turn away clients because I specialize, and wont take just anyone for the money, it has to benefit us both.