What do I need to do to become a personal trainer?

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Personal trainers are certified and skilled tutors in training. They have been in high demand because they deliver services at a personal level and bring out the best out of their clients. Various organizations do certifications for fitness for personal trainers. You need to undertake a training program for you to be certified for fitness.

become a personal trainer

Statistics show that:


  • Most of the certified personal trainers earn a median salary of 39,820 US dollars per year.
  • Currently, the market size is $9 billion in the US and £681 million in the UK.
  • The personal training industry is developing at a remarkably high rate of 10%. This trend is expected to keep up steadily.
  • Already, there are 577,041 registered personal trainers in the US and 21,879 in the UK.

To become a certified personal trainer, all you need is to follow the following seven steps:

1. Enroll in diploma program –this allows you to get certified.

Remember that entry to the diploma requires that you have a high school diploma or GED. Your interest should guide you on what specific diploma program to take.

  • The diploma may have additional requirements depending on which specialization you have chosen.
  • The duration the diploma takes depends on your availability and the institution you enroll.
  • If you take the diploma full time, you can complete your course within two months.

2. Think of getting a college degree

  • This is not a must, but it is an added advantage.
  • For example, you can pursue a degree in physical therapy, nutrition, psychology, etc.
  • Applying the knowledge from a degree level, you can be able to advise your clients properly.
  • This optimizes the outcomes of your training hence your career.
  • You should ensure that the degree is accredited.

 3. Train on First Aid skills

  • You can train on the major first aid skill, e.g., CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and how to operate an AED (automated external defibrillator).
  • During training exercises, anything may happen to your client. Health-related issues may come up!
  • These skills help you respond most appropriately in case of any emergency.
  • These skills are usually offered by various organizations, e.g., the American Red Cross.

4. Get your certificate as a personal trainer

from a recognized organization, e.g., the American Council on Exercise and International sports sciences association.

  • This is a crucial step since it involves taking an exam which you must pass.
  • The exam is administered by the organization that is certifying you.
  • Through this exam, the organization confirms that you have been adequately trained, and you are capable of delivering optimally to your clients.

5. Look out for the job

  • When looking for a job, you need to network with other people, especially those in your career line.
  • If you have sufficient capital, you can start your own business.

Other areas you may seek employment include:

  • Wellness centers
  • Fitness clubs
  • Explore gyms
  • Hospitals
  • In some cases, you may need to attend to clients in their homes.

6. Think about specializing

  • E.g., in nutrition, clients with special needs and injury prevention & recovery.
  • The choice will be based on your preference, but you must research so that the program matches your career.
  • This will be to enhance your efficiency as you carry on your career.
  •  It helps you increase your employment opportunities hence your demand.
  • This ensures that your salary keeps on rising, and you can narrow down your career path.

7. Maintain your career

  • Maintaining your careers means you attend events, conferences, workshops, and seminars about personal trainers.
  • This is a form of keeping you up-to-date on the current and new practices.
  • This helps you to advance and deliver in more recent and better services as time goes.
  • It allows you to embrace modern technology and apply it for the benefit of your client.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)


1. What qualifications do I need to become a personal trainer?

You need to be trained and legally certified by a known organization.

2. How much does it cost to become a personal trainer?

Financially, there is no fixed cost. It depends on the institution you train and the organization that is certifying you.

3. How long does it take to become a personal trainer?

The duration varies; it can take as short as six weeks and up to six months, depending on your availability.

4. Is it hard to become a personal trainer?

No, it is not hard to become a personal trainer. As long as you have a passion for it, it is a smooth walk.

5. How can I become a personal trainer?

All you need is to get trained and be certified by a recognized organization, e.g., the American Council on Exercise.

6. Are there any health benefits?

Yes, exercise maintains our bodies fit as you train, your workout too.

Final Verdict


Personal training is a rapidly upcoming industry. There is a lot that is yet to be done since there is a big market gap (especially in the explore gyms and fitness clubs). Many more (>30,000) personnel are needed to meet market demand. Statistics show that the trend is expected to be like this for the next decade or more. The catch is a certification for fitness!

You must comply with the essential requirements of the organization, which is certifying its demands. The good thing is you can train full time or part-time. If this is your passion, then this is a highly recommended career.

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