Looking For Advice On Getting Started In Being A PT

[Steve L]

I've been a white-collar, desk-jockey, for the last 23 years. But, I've always had an interest in fitness training as well - going back to 1980.

Through the years, I've learned a lot in terms of what works, and what doesn't work, with respect to maintaining a training routine and eating properly. (Most of what I learned was by making mistakes on my own until I found out what worked.)

Recently, my job in the corporate world was eliminated. I've spent the last 90 days trying to find a new job in the same field with no luck. At the same time, I've been thinking about going into something new, something that I have a passion for, like being a personal fitness/wellness trainer.

I've looked at what's available in terms of certification and I believe that ACE is the best route for me. I realize that there are stronger certifications out there. But, time is not on my side. I need to start making an income again sooner rather than later. And, I believe I can become ACE certified in three months time.

Has anyone else here made the switch from some "traditional" form of occupation to being a PT? How did that go? How old were you when you did it? How did you go about being certified? How was that process? Did you start your own business after that? What were the biggest challenges for you once you got started? What are the biggest challenges now? Have you been able to make a steady income at it? What's the trick to that? What should I avoid?

Is there anything else that I should be thinking about now?

Yes, so many questions! Thanks in advance to all who can help me with these concerns!

 

[DBoh9]

Hi,
First, welcome to the world of Personal Training. All of your questions are great and I'm glad to see that you've already done your homework on which certification may be best for you to start off with. It is also good to see that you've put a realistic time table of 3 months on the certification process.

As a former fitness manager, I've seen plenty of men and women of all ages leave the traditional 9-5 and begin a career in Personal Training. Some were successful and some were not with the major factor being the amount of time and energy they put into their new trade. The biggest item to remember is that success is not instant. Just as you mentioned with your own training routine and eating properly and learning from your mistakes; the same can be said about Personal Training.

As far as employment, there are lots of options. I would suggest making a list of health clubs and studios in your area that you think you might like to work at. Make a point to visit each as if you were going to join their facility as a member. If you like the environment and the people (employees and members) then you should inquire about employment opportunities.

It is also important to remember that Personal Training is not just fitness program design. You'll have to be on top of your game in professionalism, communication, and sales knowledge among many other requirements.

Good luck in your fitness search,
Boh

David I. Bohmiller, BS, NSCA-CSCS
President/Owner
My Personal Trainer School LLC
http://www.my-personal-trainer-school.com

 

[Steve L]

It is also important to remember that Personal Training is not just fitness program design. You'll have to be on top of your game in professionalism, communication, and sales knowledge among many other requirements.

Good luck in your fitness search,

Thanks for the great advice and well wishes David!