Fitness Instructor Job Description
Overview

A Fitness Instructor provides training and instruction of fitness programs to individuals and groups. Their role is to engage clients in exercise routines and weight loss programs in order to help them reach their individual goals. Their responsibilities are to support the development and delivery of fitness programs, assist members in approaching individual goals, help in managing and improving the goals of the organization, ensure the safety of clients during training sessions, conduct an initial assessment of their client's body measurements, and motivate clients to keep working towards their goals.
Steps to take to start your career as a Fitness Instructor and other jobs like it
- Before instructing others, it's essential to have a solid foundation in fitness yourself. Spend time working out regularly, trying different types of exercises, and learning proper form and technique. Learn from other professionals or mentors.
- Start gaining experience by working at fitness centers, gyms, or community centers. They may not be ready to hire you for a Fitness Instructor type position but you will at least get exposure to that working environment and have a chance to learn hands on from people in the industry. Consider volunteering to lead group fitness classes or offering to train friends and family members to build your confidence and skills.
- Most fitness facilities and employers require instructors to have certification from a recognized organization. This typically includes topics such as exercise science, anatomy, physiology, program design, and client assessment. There are various certification options available, such as: National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), American Council on Exercise (ACE), National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). Choose a certification program that aligns with your interests and career goals. Upon passing, you'll officially become a certified fitness instructor.
- Consider specializing in specific areas of fitness, such as yoga, Pilates, group fitness, personal training, or specialty populations like seniors or athletes. Obtaining additional certifications or training in these areas can enhance your expertise and marketability.
- While not usually required, having a background in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field is beneficial. Consider pursuing a degree or taking courses related to fitness, anatomy, physiology, and nutrition.
Why I Became a Fitness Instructor
When I was going to school for a business degree I started teaching classes on the side and teaching fitness classes and I absolutely loved it. I really got to express who I was and I got to have such an impact on other people's lives and I just thrived off of that kind of energy. Later on in my later 20s I was making a career change and I decided to get back into the fitness world which was so much more fulfilling for me because I loved that it gave me an opportunity to do teaching which I enjoyed, to have an impact on people which I enjoy, to bring positive energy. All these things were really really fulfilling for me and I just absolutely loved it.
Requirements to Become a Fitness Instructor
Technically the only requirement is to get a nationally recognized certification which teaches you about maybe 25% of the skills. The rest you kind of pick up as you go or have a good mentor and of course the University of Google.
My Fitness Journey
I got my certifications in group exercise instruction and teaching spin and then I got certified as a personal trainer. I worked for a company for a little while but within 18 months I decided to go out on my own and start my own company which was originally just private training but then turned more into outdoor fitness classes and that's kind of where we've been thriving for the last 15 years.
Career Tips
Just to be really open minded that you can turn this kind of career into anything that you want with a basis around fitness and helping people.
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Education you need to become a Fitness Instructor
These are the most common degrees or certificates earned by Jobtrees users prior to becoming a Fitness Instructor
There may be other required degrees or certifications needed for this job. The below info shows you the most commonly desired education level from employers when hiring for this job.
- Bachelor of Business Administration (b.b.a.)
- Bachelor of Science (b.sc.) in Animal Science
- Bachelor of Business Administration (b.b.a.) in Business and Management
- Bachelor of Arts (b.a.) in Psychology
Annual Pay Estimate for Fitness Instructor and Other Important Info
See how many years Fitness Instructor's are in their job, how much they make, how long it took to get there and how available this job is in terms of open positions.
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Career Paths for Fitness Instructor
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