Questions on PT as a career...

[Mikus]

Right now, i'm in the athletic training program at my local college. Problem is, there is a lot of junk classes i won't need. My question is, what is actually required as a PT? what degree should i actually get, if any? i was thinking about a degree in nutrition or exercise physiology, and then just start racking up PT certifications.

Any help is greatly appreciated. i tried doing a search but, non plats basically have no search...

 

[jochensa]

I wouldnt pursue a career as a PT, physical therapist yeah....PT no. I have a degree in exphyz and it doesnt mean much in the PT world. the only thing that matters is your cert's. dont spend all that time/$$.education to be a glorified workout partner. PT in a nutshell is high pressure sales of training regimens that dont get followed by the PT's that made them up. Seriously you wouldnt go to collage for 4 yrs to flip burgers at micky d's would you....?

 

[Mikus]

I wouldnt pursue a career as a PT, physical therapist yeah....PT no. I have a degree in exphyz and it doesnt mean much in the PT world. the only thing that matters is your cert's. dont spend all that time/$$.education to be a glorified workout partner. PT in a nutshell is high pressure sales of training regimens that dont get followed by the PT's that made them up. Seriously you wouldnt go to collage for 4 yrs to flip burgers at micky d's would you....?

I don't know if i would compare those two career choices. but i also hear of pt's making some good money, not doctor type money, but good none the less. any one else wanna chime in?

 

[jochensa]

well you are not going to major in hrta to work at macdonalds is my point. it is just not a good career choice...no health ins, benefits, 401k......... you are just a slave to club. and yeah they can make 50k a year.......thats it for life??

 

[Pure Pilates]

well you are not going to major in hrta to work at macdonalds is my point. it is just not a good career choice...no health ins, benefits, 401k......... you are just a slave to club. and yeah they can make 50k a year.......thats it for life??

The world of PT is not limited to becoming a "slave to (a) club." However, I'm glad that the majority of people "out there" feel that way because anytime a surplus of something (trainers) occurs, the value and prices demanded goes down.

Yeah, the only way to become a PT is to drop out of school and take one of those $399 weekend courses to start your career at a PT.

Now to answer your question....

My take is you can do well if you major in Marketing. Yeah, Marketing. You need to identify a market that needs your services AND can pay for your services. Then you have to figure out how to get in front of them and sell them your services. You also have to have a good personality. I know of many wealthy people who pay gobs of money just to talk. You heard me, to talk. "I really just want a light workout today..... I had a interesting night out at the club....."

 

[profits]

Here is my 2 cents on this topic. I have been an extremely successful Professional Fitness Trainer in Los Angeles for the past 16 years. Therefore, allow me to share with you what I did.

First off, if you want to work with asymptomatic populations, get a degree in Exercise Physiology/Kinesiology, and a minor in nutrition. The acadmic base will only be an asset to you! It will bring you instant credibility. However, what is going to feed your family, is sound marketing, and business sense. Sales, marketing, and business planning brings you to the next tax bracket, not knowing all the muscles in the hand. Take Body BY Jake, for instance. He is not a master Exercise Physiologist. He is a MASTER MARKETER. As a matter of fact, minoring in marketing and majoring in Exercise Phys. would be of great benefit.

As far as certifications go.. Get either the ACSM, or CSCS, and call it a day. Invest your time on learing how to market personal training.

EDIT