A fitness trainer works with clients to develop and implement exercise programs. A trainer may teach group fitness classes or work one-on-one with a client, creating a personalized training plan to meet that individual’s specific needs and goals. A fitness trainer can also provide first aid and assess injuries to determine if the injured person should seek medical attention. Some people find that working with a fitness trainer helps them to stick with their workout plans. This is because the trainer holds the client accountable by scheduling appointments and making it difficult to skip workouts.
Many fitness trainers will also help the client create a nutritional plan to promote health and wellness. Trainers can also give advice on the best equipment to purchase for home use, such as resistance bands and dumbbells. They can also show the client how to use standard gym tools, like the exercise ball, stair stepper and exercise bike. They can even show the client how to use unconventional exercise tools, such as a chair, table or paper plates.
Working as a fitness trainer is often a full-time job, but the schedule varies depending on the facility and the type of work. Some trainers work at gyms, while others may specialize in teaching a particular class, such as aerobics or Zumba. Trainers who work with groups are more likely to be a part of a larger team and will have to spend time scheduling, marketing and organizing their classes. The average trainer can expect to earn a salary between $20 and $30 per hour.
Some fitness trainers will choose to become a self-employed independent contractor, which allows them to set their own hours. This can be beneficial for someone with a family or other commitments because it allows them to make workout sessions work with their schedule. However, this can be challenging for new and aspiring trainers because they will need to devote time to finding clients.
Fitness trainers are often required to have a high school diploma or equivalent and complete an accredited personal training program. Some will choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree in exercise physiology or kinesiology, which can increase their career opportunities. A few facilities will also require a trainer to have a certification from an outside body. The American Council on Exercise, the American College of Sports Medicine and the National Strength and Conditioning Association all offer fitness trainer certifications.
Working with a fitness trainer can be beneficial for anyone who wants to achieve physical fitness. However, it is important to choose a trainer who you feel comfortable with and can communicate well with. If a trainer is pushing you to do weights that are too heavy for your ability, it is best to speak up rather than suffer through workouts that could potentially lead to injury. Also, it is important to talk to your doctor and get a clearance for exercising before hiring a trainer. Some conditions that require a doctor’s approval include heart disease, diabetes and other health concerns. fitness trainers