Q & A Thursday: Becoming a Personal Trainer

G asks:

I’m considering becoming a personal trainer. I’m already working with a couple of friends to help them improve their fitness. That all being said, I was wondering if you had any advice about what I should consider as I contemplate this journey. Are there any books you would recommend on the subject? Also what is the hardest thing about being a personal trainer, instructor etc.? And what about it brings you the most joy?

Hi G!

Here are some things to consider:

• Try working a part-time job in a gym to see if it’s really right for you.
• Talk to as many trainers as you can about what the lifestyle is like, how they are developing their careers, what their work hours are like, do they get paid for time off (obviously, the self-employed like myself do not) etc.
• Consider the hours: You’ll most likely be working unusual hours. A 4:30a.m. wake-up call was a staple in my life for many years.
• Think long term. What do you see yourself doing as a trainer ten years from now?

Books:

• I don’t know of any books that are what it’s like to be a personal trainer, but any of the major certifying agencies have good text books. There’s also a Becoming a Personal Trainer for Dummies, but I haven’t read it.

The hardest part of being a personal trainer:

• Working with clients that aren’t compliant, yet expect you to give them results.
• Unsteady income

What about it brings you the most joy:

• Connecting with people in ways that wouldn’t be possible if I had chosen another career.
• Seeing people transform their ideas about themselves and their abilities.

 

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